Railway Stations Redeveloped under Amrit Bharat Scheme (ABSS)

• 22 May 2025

Why in News? 

 The Prime Minister inaugurated three redeveloped railway stations in West Bengal—Kalyani Ghoshpara, Panagarh, and Joychandi Pahar, as part of the nationwide launch of 103 Amrit Stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS). 

 Key Points 

• Amrit Bharat Station Scheme: 
  • About & Objective: 
    • The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme was launched in February 2023 by the Ministry of Railways. 
    • The scheme aims to redevelop 1309 stations nationwide. 
    • The redevelopment will provide modern passenger amenities along with ensuring well-designed traffic circulation, inter-modal integration, and signage for the guidance of passengers. 
    • Focused efforts will enhance the stations’ greenery and visual appeal to create a more inviting environment for passengers. 
    • Under this scheme, local products will be showcased and sold under the ‘One Station One Product’ scheme.  
  • Integrated Approach to Urban Development: 
    • The redevelopment is planned with a holistic approach to urban development, treating the stations as "City Centres." 
    • This approach aims to integrate both sides of the city and create well-designed traffic circulation, inter-modal connectivity, and clear signage for passengers' guidance. 

Note 

• The Indian Railways ranks as the world's fourth-largest railway network, encompassing a track length of 67,368 km. Only the US, China, and Russia have larger networks.  
  • It's also the world's second-largest network managed under a single administration, spanning 115,000 km. 
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 
  • The Indian Railways takes pride in owning four UNESCO-recognized world heritage sites, 
    • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and Kalka Shimla Railway.