PM Modi Inaugurates 103 Redeveloped Railway Stations Including Ambikapur; A Glimpse of a Developed India, Says CM Vishnu Deo Sai

Raipur : Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated 103 redeveloped railway stations across India today under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, including five stations in Chhattisgarh. These revamped stations, equipped with world-class amenities, represent a modernized Indian Railways and a vision of a developed nation. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai joined the event from the newly upgraded Ambikapur Railway Station.

The Ambikapur station, redeveloped at a cost of ₹6.29 crore, is now a model for enhanced passenger convenience and infrastructure. Speaking on the occasion, CM Sai said the Amrit stations offer a glimpse of a developed India, adding that the transformation reflects the vision of PM Modi, who treats all 140 crore Indians as his own family. “By 2047, we aim to make Chhattisgarh a developed state,” the Chief Minister said, emphasizing continuous efforts to connect Jashpur district by rail.

He also credited Larang Sai for initiating railway development in Ambikapur and stated that the ongoing railway modernization during the “Amrit Kaal” is a symbol of New India.

Chhattisgarh Gets Five Amrit Stations

As part of the initiative, five stations in Chhattisgarh have been revamped:

• Ambikapur (Bilaspur Division)
• Urkura, Bhilai, Bhanupratappur (Raipur Division)
• Dongargarh (Nagpur Division)

Indian Railways is working to transform 1,337 stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, out of which redevelopment work at 103 stations is now complete.

Ambikapur Station – A Blend of Culture and Modernity

Ambikapur, a key center of Chhattisgarh’s tribal and cultural heritage, now boasts a state-of-the-art railway station. Key features include:

• Improved circulating area and road widening
• Decorative entrance gate
• 3900 sq. m. road and 3677 sq. m. parking area for two, three, and four-wheelers
• Upgraded second- and first-class waiting rooms, VIP lounge
• 6 modern platform sheds
• Accessible restrooms for women, men, and persons with disabilities
• Water fountains, coach display boards, CCTV cameras, ramps, tactile tiles
• 300 meters of stainless steel railing, 58 street lights, and high mast lighting
• Advanced public announcement system

A giant national flag now flies at the station’s entrance, and a selfie point inspired by the Sitabengra Caves—a local heritage site—has been installed. The station also includes a grand façade, ticket counters, modern toilets, and ramp access for the differently-abled, along with digital coach indicators and real-time information boards.

The station’s design incorporates elements of local art, culture, and traditions, making it both modern and culturally rooted.

Distinguished Guests Attend the Ceremony

Several dignitaries were present at the inauguration event, including:

• Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam
• Finance Minister O.P. Choudhary
• Women and Child Development Minister Lakshmi Rajwade
• Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal
• MP Chintamani Maharaj, MLAs Rajesh Agrawal, Shakuntala Porte, Udeshwari Paikra, Ram Kumar Toppo, Prabodh Minj
• State Youth Commission Chairperson Vishw Vijay Singh Tomar
• Mayor Manjusha Bhagat
• Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain
• Along with other public representatives and a large gathering of citizens from the Sarguja region

The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is redefining railway infrastructure, promoting local identity, and fueling tourism, connectivity, and economic growth across the country.