Sat Dec 21 23:26:00 UTC 2024: ## Indian Railways to Revamp 30 Heritage Railway Stations Under Amrit Bharat Scheme

**MUMBAI, December 22, 2024** – Thirty heritage railway stations across India are set for a major makeover as part of the Indian Railways’ ambitious ₹60,000 crore Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The initiative, overseen by the Gati Shakti Directorate and Station Development section, will restore and upgrade 30 of the 79 stations designated as “heritage structures” by the Heritage Directorate of Indian Railways.

Iconic stations like the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Mumbai), a UNESCO World Heritage site, will receive significant investment. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus renovation is budgeted at ₹1,813 crore, while Egmore (Chennai) is allocated ₹842 crore, Kanpur ₹767 crore, Jaipur ₹717 crore, Nagpur ₹589 crore, and Lucknow ₹494 crore.

The renovations aim to enhance passenger amenities without compromising the historical integrity of these structures. For example, at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a 1930s addition will be removed to create a public park, and viewing galleries will be added to showcase the station’s architectural details. Modernization efforts will also include the installation of automated fare collection gates.

Other stations receiving attention include the picturesque Ballari and Coonoor stations, both with significant historical value. Officials are working closely with the Heritage Committee to ensure renovations align with preservation efforts, as seen in the revised plans for Udhagamandalam and Coonoor stations, which will cost approximately ₹7 crore each. Challenges like increasing footfall and vehicle congestion at Nagpur station are being addressed with the construction of underground parking.

New constructions at several stations, such as additional entry points in Lucknow, Kanpur, and Egmore, will reflect the architectural style of the original buildings, ensuring a harmonious blend of modern amenities and historical preservation. The designs for new structures in Thanjavur and Puri will draw inspiration from local temple architecture. The Indian Railways emphasizes its commitment to preserving the historical significance of these stations while modernizing them for improved passenger experience.

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