NEW DELHI: On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the redeveloped Deshnoke station in Bikaner, Rajasthan, and virtually launch 102 more revamped railway stations across 18 states. In addition, he will lay the foundation for and dedicate a series of infrastructure projects worth over Rs 26,000 crore to the nation.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, these 103 stations have been redeveloped under the ‘Amrit Bharat Station Scheme’ across 86 districts, at a cost exceeding Rs 1,100 crore. As part of this initiative, over 1,300 stations will be upgraded with modern amenities that showcase regional architecture and improve passenger facilities. Notably, Deshnoke station, which caters to pilgrims and tourists visiting the Karni Mata temple, incorporates design elements inspired by the temple’s unique architecture, including arches and columns.
Similarly, the revamped Begumpet station in Telangana features architectural motifs from the Kakatiya empire. The Thawe station in Bihar showcases murals and artworks connected to Maa Thawewali, one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, while Madhubani paintings add to its aesthetic appeal.
The Dakor station in Gujarat draws inspiration from the Ranchhodrai Ji Maharaj temple.
The newly redeveloped ‘Amrit’ stations will blend modern infrastructure with cultural heritage. These stations are designed to offer a range of passenger-centric amenities, including provisions for ‘divyangjan’ (persons with disabilities), and are built to adhere to sustainable practices.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation for the construction of three vehicle underpasses and the widening and strengthening of national highways. He will also dedicate seven major roadway projects, worth Rs 4,850 crore, in Rajasthan. These highway projects extend up to the India-Pakistan border, improving accessibility for security forces and bolstering defence infrastructure.
