172 Stations Redeveloped Under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme
The Ministry of Railways has completed redevelopment works at 172 railway stations under the ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The programme focuses on long-term station transformation through phased master planning aimed at improving passenger convenience and city integration.
The scheme covers enhanced station access, improved circulating areas, upgraded waiting halls, modern toilets, better seating arrangements, and drinking water facilities. It also includes development of wider foot overbridges, installation of lifts, escalators and ramps, and improved platform infrastructure.
Railways has identified 1,337 stations across the country for redevelopment. The scheme also promotes eco-friendly infrastructure, multimodal connectivity, landscaping, executive lounges, and dedicated spaces for business meetings. Additionally, local products are promoted through initiatives like the “One Station One Product” scheme, supporting regional economies.
Bridge Safety Strengthened with Regular Inspections
Ensuring railway bridge safety remains a top priority for Indian Railways. Authorities conduct mandatory inspections of all bridges twice a year, including pre-monsoon and post-monsoon checks. Certain bridges undergo additional inspections depending on structural conditions.
Between 2022 and December 2025, Indian Railways repaired, rehabilitated, strengthened, or rebuilt 8,626 bridges nationwide. Technical audits, quality assurance protocols, and strict contract accountability measures are implemented to ensure structural safety and reliability.
Railways has also adopted improved drainage designs and installed high-capacity pumps at vulnerable road under bridges and subways to prevent waterlogging during heavy rainfall.
Massive Growth in LHB Coach Manufacturing
Indian Railways has significantly expanded production of modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches, which offer improved passenger comfort and safety. From 2004 to 2014, Railways manufactured 2,337 LHB coaches. Production surged dramatically between 2014 and 2025, with 42,677 coaches produced — an increase of over 18 times.
LHB coaches feature anti-climbing technology, lightweight stainless steel bodies, air suspension systems, disc brakes, and enhanced ride quality. These coaches are gradually replacing older Integral Coach Factory (ICF) coaches across the rail network.
India currently operates three major coach manufacturing facilities at Chennai, Kapurthala, and Raebareli. The Modern Coach Factory in Raebareli was established with an investment of ₹3,042.83 crore. Additional projects worth ₹2,443 crore have been sanctioned for upgrading existing manufacturing units.
Stall Allocation Promotes Inclusive Economic Opportunities
Indian Railways has allocated 11,650 stalls and commercial units at railway stations across the country. These stalls are allotted through transparent e-auction and e-tender processes. The policy ensures equal opportunities for eligible applicants, including individuals from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes communities.
Authorities clarified that current policies do not allow free stall allotments. The focus remains on fair, competitive allocation that supports entrepreneurship and passenger service improvements.
Cleanliness and Hygiene Remain a Priority
Railways continues to strengthen cleanliness standards through mechanised coach cleaning, onboard housekeeping services, and Clean Train Station initiatives. Dedicated teams conduct mechanised cleaning during scheduled stoppages at designated stations.
Bio-toilets have been installed in all passenger coaches, significantly improving hygiene and eliminating discharge of human waste onto railway tracks. Since 2014, more than 3.61 lakh bio-toilets have been installed.
The Railways maintains dedicated budget provisions for cleanliness and hygiene and does not charge passengers separately for these services. Passenger feedback is monitored through platforms like RailMadad and RailOne applications.
Enhanced Catering Services and Overcharging Prevention
Indian Railways serves approximately 58 crore meals annually. Authorities report that complaints related to food services remain extremely low, with penalties imposed in cases of overcharging or service violations.
To ensure transparency, passengers receive SMS notifications containing menu and tariff details. Railways has introduced Point-of-Sale machines for digital billing and cashless transactions. QR-enabled identity cards for catering staff, e-pantry services, awareness campaigns, and surprise inspections further strengthen accountability.
Railways and IRCTC supervisors continuously monitor onboard catering to ensure food quality, pricing compliance, and timely grievance resolution.
