Haridwar Station Mega Makeover: ₹460 Crore Upgrade for 2027 Ardh Kumbh Mela!
The Haridwar Railway Station is undergoing a massive transformation as officials race to complete critical infrastructure upgrades ahead of the 2027 Ardh Kumbh Mela. With millions of pilgrims expected to descend upon the holy city, the scale of construction and repair work has intensified to ensure a seamless travel experience.
Amrit Bharat Scheme: A Massive ₹460 Crore Modernization
Under the ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, a staggering ₹460 crore has been allocated to overhaul the Haridwar facility. This redevelopment is not just about minor fixes but a comprehensive modernization of the entire station ecosystem.
Moradabad Divisional Railway Manager Vineeta Srivastava confirmed that the administration is actively reviewing preparations, with a heavy focus on:
- Railway yard renovations to improve train movement.
- The establishment of dedicated transit area arrangements for arriving pilgrims.
- The construction of a brand-new Platform Number 10.
- Essential repairs to station toilets, tin sheds, and internal roads.
High-Tech Amenities and Enhanced Safety
To cater to the needs of modern travelers, a special ₹15 crore budget has been earmarked for Haridwar and Dehradun stations. This investment will bring high-tech amenities directly to the passengers, including:
- Automatic escalators and lifts for effortless movement.
- Modern food units to provide better dining options.
Safety and logistics are also being bolstered through significant engineering works. A 50-meter Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) wall is currently under construction near the Kali Temple tunnel. Furthermore, a proposal for a ₹20 crore Command Center has been approved to manage the complex station environment during peak periods.
Strict Deadlines and State Government Support
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has issued a clear mandate: all permanent infrastructure projects tied to the 2027 Ardh Kumbh must be completed by October 2026.
The state government is backing these efforts with a ₹50.27 crore project aimed at constructing a new Command and Control Centre and two additional bridges. An initial installment of ₹20.11 crore has already been released to kickstart these works.
Mela Officer Sonika recently conducted a joint inspection of the site alongside railway and administration officials to closely monitor the progress of these vital developments.
Strategic Passenger Management via Rishikesh
To prevent the Haridwar station from becoming overwhelmed by the massive influx of devotees, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has designated Rishikesh railway station as a feeder station. This strategic move is designed to manage passenger volumes more effectively and ensure smoother logistics across the region during the Mela.