Railways’ 1st Redeveloped Station to Open on Friday

Gandhinagar Capital railway station, India’s first redeveloped station in line with the central government’s plan to modernise railway stations through Public-Private Partnerships, will open on Friday. According to media reports Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the redeveloped station on 16 July. 

As per the news agency PTI, the station will provide an airport-like experience to passengers with facilities such as a luxury hotel, theme-based lighting, a centralised AC waiting lounge with variable control. and a separate baby feeding room. Its redevelopment was conceptualized in 2016. The structure is designed with green building rating features and has sustainability standards green certification from the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM). The upgraded station has an interfaith prayer hall — a first for the country’s vast railway network. Talking about the station’s other facilities, the railways said it has segregated entry and exit through landscaped areas, Divyang-friendly special ticket booking counters, ramps, lifts, dedicated parking space, and a dedicated art gallery with live LED wall display lounge.

“The station has been developed at par with airports for enhanced public satisfaction. We have tried to incorporate all the best facilities that our passengers require for a pleasant experience at a railway station,” Railway Board Chairman Suneet Sharma said. The Hindustan Times reported the government’s plan to first lease out 90 railway stations on Public Private Partnership basis through IRSDC, the Indian Railways’ nodal agency for station redevelopment. 

(With PTI Inputs)