New Delhi, February 5: Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday that the redevelopment of 172 railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme has been completed. This initiative aims to enhance facilities at the stations and their surrounding areas, improve connectivity from both sides of the stations, and provide better services to passengers through upgraded amenities such as buildings, waiting halls, and toilets.
The scheme incorporates features based on passenger numbers, including wider foot-over bridges, escalators, lifts, improved parking areas, and passenger information systems. It also includes multi-modal integration and kiosks for selling goods to travelers.
In a written response in the Lok Sabha, Vaishnaw stated that the plan includes sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, modern tracks, and the establishment of a city center at the stations. To date, 1,337 stations have been identified for development under this scheme.
The minister emphasized that Indian Railways prioritizes the safety of bridges across the country. Between 2022 and 2025 (by December 2025), a total of 8,626 railway bridges will undergo repairs, strengthening, and reconstruction.
A systematic approach is in place for inspecting railway bridges. Inspections occur twice a year: once before the onset of the monsoon and a detailed inspection afterward. Some bridges may be inspected more frequently based on their condition, as determined by the Chief Bridge Engineer. Repairs are conducted during these inspections, and special technical audits are performed, followed by necessary actions.
Subways and road under-bridges are also inspected before and after the monsoon. Measures have been implemented to reduce waterlogging in RUBs and subways.
The methods for bridge rehabilitation are outlined in the Indian Railways Bridge Manual. Compliance with quality assurance plans, inspection, and testing protocols is ensured through contract management and the general and special conditions of contracts.