The Ministry of Railways has announced an ambitious plan to transform 15 major railway stations across the country through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This initiative is a core component of the wider Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, which aims to revitalize 1,337 stations nationwide. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed the development in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha on August 7, 2026, highlighting a shift toward world-class infrastructure and improved passenger comfort.
- 15 key railway stations identified for comprehensive modernization.
- Projects to be executed through a hybrid PPP model with up to 40% viability gap funding.
- Amenities include skywalks, multi-level parking, and modern retail spaces.
- Rani Kamalapati station serves as the successful benchmark for this redevelopment model.
Modernizing Infrastructure for Future Travel
The planned upgrades focus on creating integrated transport hubs that reflect local heritage while offering modern conveniences. Passengers can expect vastly improved waiting areas, seamless accessibility features, and efficient multi-modal connectivity. To make these projects financially viable, the Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) is offering private developers commercial rights for the airspace above platforms and tracks, alongside government-backed viability gap funding.
Current Status and Project Pipeline
The list of stations selected for this phase includes Vijayawada, Coimbatore Junction, KSR Bengaluru, Chennai Central, Andheri, Avadi, Tambaram, Bhopal, Vadodara, Kalyan, Dadar, Anand Vihar Terminal, Old Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin, and Pune.
As of August 10, 2026, progress remains varied. The Vijayawada Railway Station project, valued at ₹946.60 crore, is the only one to have reached the appraisal stage and received approval from the Public-Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC) on May 7, 2025. However, following a lack of bids in the initial tender, the project is now set for a fresh bidding process. The remaining 14 stations are currently undergoing master planning and financial modeling, with construction yet to begin.
Reviewing the broader Amrit Bharat scheme, a parliamentary committee noted that while 172 stations have already been redeveloped and 1,072 are in progress, the focus must now shift from simple asset creation to measuring the actual performance and passenger impact of these world-class facilities.