Chennai, July 9:
Redevelopment works at nine railway stations, including Chennai Park in Tamil Nadu, are nearing completion under the Centre’s ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to dedicate these upgraded stations to the nation shortly.
The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme aims to modernise more than 1,300 railway stations across India by enhancing passenger amenities and infrastructure. In the Southern Railway zone alone, improvement works are currently underway at over 40 stations.
Officials said that more than 119 redeveloped railway stations have already been opened to the public nationwide, while 21 stations in the Southern Railway region have been completed and dedicated so far. The remaining stations are being upgraded in phases, with over 1,150 stations progressing at various stages.
Among the stations nearing completion are Chennai Park, Chinnasalem and Coonoor in Tamil Nadu, along with Thalassery, Tirur, Parappanangadi, Angamaly, Chalakudy and Nilambur in Kerala.
The redevelopment project focuses on improving passenger convenience through modern facilities such as lifts, escalators, foot overbridges, additional platforms, waiting halls, upgraded entry points, multi-level parking, and enhanced security systems including CCTV surveillance.
According to officials, Chennai Park railway station is being upgraded at an estimated cost of ₹10.68 crore, while Coonoor and Chinnasalem stations are being redeveloped at ₹7.62 crore and ₹2.5 crore respectively.
The upgraded stations are expected to be inaugurated between July 12 and July 17, although the exact date is yet to be officially confirmed.
The scheme is part of a broader effort by Indian Railways to transform stations into modern, passenger-friendly hubs while preserving local culture and improving connectivity.