Stations can turn ‘City Centres’, hopes govt

NEW DELHI: The government is looking to redevelop railway stations across 1,300 locations in the country, mostly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, which will emerge as the ‘City Centres’ and hub of activities in the near future. The stations have been designed to provide modern amenities to passengers and also showcase the architecture, heritage, culture and iconic structure of the cities.

After virtually laying the foundation stone for redevelopment of 508 such railway stations, PM Narendra Modi said this will lead to a significant transformation of rail infrastructure in India and will also create a good first impression among visitors about the city and the state.

Stating that the scheme will benefit every state and Union territory, the PM said while 55 stations are being redeveloped in Uttar Pradesh with a Rs 4,000 crore investment, another 55 are being revamped in Rajasthan. Similarly, 34 stations in Madhya Pradesh will be revamped with an outlay of Rs 1,000 crore and Rs 1,500 crore will be spent in Maharashtra for redevelopment of 44 stations.