Lucknow’s historic 130-year-old Aishbagh Junction has officially entered a new era of rail travel. On Friday, July 17, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the redeveloped station from Jalandhar, Punjab, as part of a massive nationwide initiative that saw 75 railway stations dedicated to the nation. Falling under the North Eastern Railway (NER) Lucknow division, the station has undergone a major facelift with a total investment of ₹24 crore 13 lakh.
Key highlights of the Aishbagh Junction redevelopment include:
- Completion of the project at a cost of ₹24.13 crore.
- Introduction of modern passenger amenities like AC waiting rooms and baby feeding facilities.
- Enhanced infrastructure including 5,500 square meters of parking space and 4,300 square meters of green parks.
- Construction of a 6-meter-wide Foot Over Bridge (FOB) equipped with lifts and escalators for Divyangjan and senior citizens.
- Integration of modern flooring, high-quality toilets, and standard LED signage across the station premises.
A Legacy Renewed
Aishbagh Junction holds a storied place in Indian railway history. Once a vital hub for steam engine maintenance and logistics during the British era, the station transitioned from meter-gauge to broad gauge in 2016. The current modernization under the Amrit Bharat Station Yojana ensures that this historic site remains relevant for modern commuters while preserving its operational significance in North India.
Vision of the Amrit Bharat Station Yojana
During the inauguration, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak lauded the aesthetic and functional upgrades at the station. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya highlighted the broader scope of the scheme, which was launched by the Ministry of Railways in December 2022. The mission aims to overhaul over 1,300 stations nationwide with a projected investment exceeding ₹71,000 crore.
This project is part of a long-term master plan designed to integrate modern technology and safety standards into the railway network. As of March 12, 2026, 180 of the 1,337 identified stations have finished their redevelopment. Indian Railways has set ambitious targets to complete 400 stations by the end of 2026 and 700 by the end of 2027, ensuring a seamless and world-class travel experience for passengers across the country.