PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Aug 19: Indian Railways is moving ahead at a rapid pace in the direction of modernization and radical transformation.
As a part of it, more than 1300 railway stations across the country are being redeveloped with state-of-the-art facilities under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, including 20 stations from Jharkhand.
Moreover, to give a major thrust for development of railway infrastructure in Jharkhand, there has been a budget allocation of Rs. 5271 crores in 2023-24.
The 20 stations of Jharkhand, to be redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme are Hatia, Piska, Bokaro Steel City, Ghatsila, Rajkharswan, Manoharpur, Barkakana, N.S.C.B. Gomoh, Parasnath, Koderma, Daltonganj, Hazaribagh Road, Katrasgarh, Chandrapura, Nagar Untari, Kumardubi, Garhwa Road, Garhwa Town, Latehar and Sahibganj.
Master Plans are being prepared for development of these stations as ‘City Centres’, with proper integration of both sides of the city.
This integrated approach is driven by the holistic vision of the overall urban development of the city, cantered around the railway station.
The redevelopment will provide modern passenger amenities along with ensuring well-designed traffic circulation, inter-modal integration and signage for the guidance of passengers. The design of the station buildings will be inspired by local culture, heritage and architecture.
The modernization of 20 railway stations of Jharkhand will create a new atmosphere for development as they will give a good first impression among the visitors.
Upgraded stations will not only increase tourism but will also give a boost to economic activities and financial growth of the nearby areas.