New Delhir: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 17 virtually inaugurated 75 redeveloped railway stations across 20 states under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), one of the world’s largest station redevelopment initiatives, from Jalandhar in Punjab.
The stations, modernised at a cost of approximately ₹1,570 crore, have been transformed into contemporary, passenger-friendly facilities. Redeveloped in the spirit of ‘Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi’ (Heritage and Development), the upgraded stations blend modern amenities with local culture, heritage, and architectural elements.
Key stations among those inaugurated include Jalandhar Cantonment, SAS Nagar (Mohali), Sri Muktsar Sahib, and Sri Anandpur Sahib in Punjab; Pratapnagar, Godhra, Porbandar, and Bhaktinagar in Gujarat; and several in Odisha such as Barpali, Balangir, Paralakhemundi, Talcher, Kesinga, Bimalgarh, and Baripada. Nine stations under Southern Railway were also part of the rollout.
On the occasion, the Prime Minister flagged off two new train services to boost regional connectivity. These include the Kartoli-Ambala service, which will enhance links across Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, and the Sant Ravidas Express between Amritsar (Chheharta) and Varanasi — establishing a direct rail link between two major spiritual and cultural centres of India.
The redeveloped stations and new train services form part of a broader push of rail and road infrastructure projects worth over ₹5,470 crore unveiled in Jalandhar. PM Modi also inaugurated Package-6 of the four-lane greenfield Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway.
Speaking at the event, Modi highlighted the rapid modernisation of Indian Railways and the Centre’s commitment to the development of Punjab and other states. He emphasised that the government’s priority remains serving the people, improving quality of life, and creating new opportunities, guided by the principle of ‘Nagrik Devo Bhava’ (Citizen is God).
Earlier on July 17, PM Modi flagged off India’s first hydrogen-powered train from Jind railway station in Haryana. The train will operate between Jind and Sonipat, covering the 89-km distance in about two hours. He also laid the foundation stone and dedicated multiple development projects worth around ₹14,700 crore in Jind.
Later, the Prime Minister launched development works worth over ₹4,700 crore in Chandigarh, covering healthcare, education, and road infrastructure.
The initiatives are expected to significantly improve passenger convenience, strengthen connectivity, promote sustainable transport, and accelerate economic growth in the northern region.