What is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS)?

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About Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS):

It envisages development of stations on a continuous basis with a long term vision.
The scheme will subsume all previous redevelopment projects where work is yet to begin.
The scheme aims at preparation of Master Plans of the Railway stations and implementation of the Master Plan in phases to enhance the facilities including and beyond the Minimum Essential Amenities.
However, plans and consequent budgets will only be approved on the basis of factors such as footfall and inputs from stakeholders.
Zonal railways have been given the responsibility of selecting stations, which will then be approved by a committee of senior railway officials.
The model envisages low-cost redevelopment of stations which can be executed timely.
The scheme shall cater for introduction of new amenities as well as upgradation and replacement of existing amenities.
Facilities Planned under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme:
- Provision for Roof Plaza to be created in future.
- Free Wi-Fi, space for 5G mobile towers.
- Smooth access by widening of roads, removal of unwanted structures, properly designed signages, dedicated pedestrian pathways, well planned parking areas, improved lighting etc.
- Attempts shall be made to club different grades/types of waiting halls and provide good cafeteria/retail facilities as far as possible.
- Better furniture will be installed in waiting rooms, platforms, rest rooms and offices.
- High level platforms(760-840 mill meter) shall be provided at all categories of stations.
- Special amenities for the disabled as per guidelines issued by the Railway Board from time to time.

Q1) Where is the Southern Railway zone headquarters?

Southern Railway headquarters administrative building, Chennai, is an Indo-Saracenic structure located adjacent to the Chennai Central railway station on Poonamallee High Road. Built in 1921 as the new Madras and Southern Mahratta Railway Company (MSMR) headquarters (successor of Madras Railway Company), replacing the general office of MSMR at Royapuram Railway Station, the building now functions as the headquarters of the Southern Railways.

Source: 90 Southern Railway stations to get a facelift under Amrit Bharat scheme