Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated 75 redeveloped railway stations across 20 states on July 17, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing modernization of Indian Railways. This massive infrastructure push, executed under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, represents a total investment of approximately ₹1,570 crore. While the main event was hosted at Jalandhar Cantt in Punjab, the initiative highlights the government’s commitment to upgrading passenger amenities while preserving regional heritage.
- 75 stations redeveloped across 20 states under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
- Total project cost for these 75 stations is approximately ₹1,570 crore.
- Key upgrades include Ashbagh Junction (₹24.13 crore) and Panki Dham (₹24.94 crore).
- Focus on passenger-friendly amenities like lifts, escalators, and modern waiting areas.
- Amrit Bharat scheme aims to redevelop 1,337 stations nationwide.
Revamping Key Uttar Pradesh Stations
The redevelopment of Ashbagh Junction and Panki Dham stands out as a showcase of the scheme’s vision. Ashbagh Junction has received a major facelift with a new 6-meter-wide foot overbridge, lifts, escalators, and platforms extended to accommodate 22-coach trains. Travelers will now benefit from modern waiting rooms, baby feeding facilities, and a dedicated parcel office, all designed with aesthetics reflecting the cultural heritage of Awadh.
Similarly, Panki Dham Station has been transformed with a modern two-story building, executive lounges, and advanced ticketing facilities. The station is being positioned as a future major terminal to reduce congestion at Kanpur Central, with plans to increase train stoppages from 16 to over 30. The architecture at Panki Dham pays tribute to its spiritual significance, incorporating motifs dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
The Vision of Amrit Bharat Station Scheme
Launched in December 2022, the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is built on the philosophy of “Heritage as well as Development.” The ministry is working on a phased timeline to upgrade 1,337 stations. As of March 2026, 180 stations were already completed, with targets set to finish 400 stations by the end of 2026 and 700 by the end of 2027.
During the same event, the Prime Minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various rail and road projects worth over ₹5,470 crore in Jalandhar. Additionally, he flagged off two new express trains, including the Sant Ravidas Express, which will connect Varanasi and Amritsar via Lucknow, further enhancing connectivity for thousands of daily passengers.