Indian Railways Sanctions ₹60.93 Cr for Redevelopment of Three Odisha Stations
Hirakud, Bargarh Road, and Panposh Stations to See Major Upgrades Under Amrit Bharat Scheme
In a significant push towards modernizing railway infrastructure in Odisha, Indian Railways has sanctioned 60.93 crore for the redevelopment of three key railway stations—Hirakud, Bargarh Road, and Panposh (Rourkela)—under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The East Coast Railway (ECoR) announced the initiative through its official handle on X (formerly Twitter).
The redevelopment aims to significantly enhance passenger convenience, safety, and accessibility by introducing modern facilities and user-friendly infrastructure.
Hirakud Railway Station will receive 22.87 crore. The proposed revamp includes the construction of a 12-meter-wide Foot Over Bridge (FOB) to ease platform access, installation of two passenger lifts, modern coach indication boards, improved toilet facilities, and Divyangjan-friendly infrastructure to cater to persons with disabilities.
Bargarh Road Railway Station has been sanctioned 23.84 crore for a wide range of upgrades. The station’s front façade will be redesigned for a modern look. Plans include a 12-meter-wide FOB, 15-bay platform shelters to offer weather protection, two lifts for better mobility, and standardized signage for clear navigation.
Panposh Railway Station in Rourkela is allocated 14.22 crore. Redevelopment work will focus on upgrading the platform surface, improving the station’s façade, installing two passenger lifts, modernizing toilet facilities, and ensuring inclusive design features for differently-abled passengers.
These developments fall under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, a flagship programme by Indian Railways focused on the long-term transformation of stations into well-integrated, passenger-centric hubs. The scheme prioritizes sustainability, safety, and future-ready infrastructure across India.
The project not only aims to deliver better passenger experiences but also supports regional growth by improving connectivity and encouraging local development. Enhanced station design and updated amenities are expected to boost tourism, local commerce, and overall travel efficiency in the region.
The move has been widely welcomed by passengers and public representatives, who see it as a much-needed step toward bridging infrastructure gaps in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. These stations serve as critical transit points in western Odisha and play a key role in facilitating the movement of people and goods.
Indian Railways’ focus on inclusive development is evident in the plans to ensure Divyangjan-friendly facilities at all three stations, making public transport more accessible to all.
With work set to begin soon, the people of Hirakud, Bargarh, and Panposh can look forward to a safer, more comfortable, and modern travel experience in the near future.
