Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• What is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS)?
• News Summary Regarding Launch of Recent Rejuvenation Works under ABSS

Why in News?

Western Railway has announced the inclusion of Kandivali and Dahisar railway stations in the recently launched Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS).

What is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS)?

• It is an ongoing Indian Railways mission launched in February 2023 by the Ministry of Railway sto redevelop railway stations across India.
• It is designed for the ongoing development of railway stations with a long-term perspective.
• It involves the creation of master plans and their phased implementation to improve various aspects of station facilities.
• The development plan takes into account the unique needs of each station, promoting a holistic approach to railway station enhancement.
• The scheme aims to transform railway stations into modern, well-equipped hubs with improved passenger amenities, better traffic circulation, inter-modal integration, and enhanced signage.
• The scheme shall cater for the introduction of new amenities as well as the upgradation and replacement of existing amenities.
• The ultimate goal is to transform these stations into vibrant city centres over the long term.
• Key Features:
  • Modern passenger amenities: This includes providing clean and hygienic waiting areas, restrooms, Special amenities for the disabled, and food and beverage outlets.
  • Improved traffic circulation: This includes creating separate entry and exit points for passengers and vehicles, widening roads and footpaths, and providing adequate parking facilities.
  • Inter-modal integration: This includes providing seamless connectivity between railway stations and other modes of transport, such as buses, taxis, and autorickshaws.
  • Upgraded signage: This includes providing clear and visible signage in multiple languages to guide passengers.
  • Sustainability: This includes using energy-efficient lighting and appliances.
• Eco-friendliness: 
  • Rainwater harvesting systems and green spaces
  • Ballastless tracks, which reduce noise and vibration
  • Roof plazas, where available, provide additional space for commercial activities and passenger amenities

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News Summary Regarding Launch of Recent Rejuvenation Works under ABSS:

• The 13 railway stations include Ballari, Ghatprabha, Gokak Road, Alnavar, Gadag, Koppal, Harihar, Arsikere, Mangaluru Jn., Wadi, Kalaburagi Jn. (Gulbarga) and Shahabad.
  • These railway stations in the State are all set to emerge as city centre and urban icons giving a new identity to the town/city in which they are located.
  • The stations will become world class with amenities such as a shopping zone, food court, children’s play area, multi-level parking, physically challenged-friendly facilities, etc.
  • With the integration of multi-modal connectivity, the redeveloped stations will become the centre of socio-economic activities of the region.
• The launch of these 13 stations was part of the all-India launch of laying the foundation stone for work on 508 stations in various States.
• The PM said that the 508 Stations will become world class with an investment of ₹25,000 crore.
• The PM said that ABSS is set to transform and revitalise 1,309 railway stations across the nation and will breathe new life into travel hubs and enhance the overall passenger experience.

Q1: What is Rainwater harvesting?

Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) is a method of collecting and conserving surface runoff rainwater for storage and use or for groundwater recharge. Though simple in principle, numerous variables come into play while implementing an efficient RWH system (climate, humidity, temperature, rainfall pattern, finances etc.).

Source: Western railway adds Kandivali and Dahisar to Amrit Bharat Station Scheme