Lifts and Escalators for 15 Railway Stations in Nagpur Division: Enhancing Passenger Convenience
The Nagpur Division of the South East Central Railway (SECR) is undergoing significant development, thanks to the Amrit Bharat Scheme. The Railway Ministry has rolled out plans to improve infrastructure across 15 railway stations in this division, with a strong focus on making passenger movement smoother, safer, and more convenient. A key component of these improvements involves the installation of lifts and escalators, which will greatly benefit senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, and other passengers with mobility challenges.
Let’s dive into how this development is unfolding and what it means for the future of railway travel in the Nagpur Division.
Overview of the Amrit Bharat Scheme
The Amrit Bharat Scheme is a visionary initiative by the Railway Ministry aimed at upgrading railway infrastructure across the nation. Under this scheme, 15 railway stations in the Nagpur Division will see a comprehensive transformation, with particular emphasis on improving passenger amenities. These changes are designed to make travel more convenient, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly and the differently-abled.
Budget Allocation for the Nagpur Division’s Upgrades
A hefty budget of ₹223 crore has been allocated to the development of the Nagpur Division’s railway stations. This funding will be used for several key projects, including the installation of lifts and escalators, circulation area upgrades, waiting hall improvements, and the installation of eco-friendly designs. All these initiatives are expected to significantly elevate the passenger experience.
The Importance of Lifts and Escalators in Modern Railway Stations
Lifts and escalators are no longer luxury features—they are essential for ensuring that all passengers, regardless of their physical ability, can navigate railway stations with ease. These features are especially helpful for:
- Elderly passengers
- People with mobility issues or disabilities
- Families traveling with young children or heavy luggage
By installing these amenities, the Nagpur Division is setting new standards in accessibility and convenience for passengers.
List of Railway Stations Getting Lifts and Escalators
The 15 railway stations undergoing these developments include:
- Kamptee
- Bhandara Road
- Tumsar Road
- Gondia
- Wadsa
- Chanda Fort
- Chhindwara
- Dongargarh
- Seoni
- Nainpur
- Mandla Fort
- Rajnandgaon
Each of these stations will have improved facilities tailored to better accommodate passenger needs.
Number of Lifts and Escalators Being Installed
A total of 29 lifts and 14 escalators are being installed across these stations. Here’s a breakdown of their distribution:
Lifts
- Kamptee, Bhandara Road, Tumsar Road, Wadsa, Mandla Fort, Chanda Fort: 2 lifts each
- Gondia, Dongargarh: 4 lifts each
- Chhindwara, Seoni: 3 lifts each
Escalators
- Gondia, Rajnandgaon, Chanda Fort: 4 escalators each
- Dongargarh: 2 escalators
These installations are well-planned, ensuring easy access to platforms and station areas for all travelers.
Circulating Area Upgrades
Alongside lifts and escalators, the circulating areas at these stations are being revamped. These upgrades aim to improve the overall flow of passenger traffic, making it easier for people to move between different parts of the station.
Features of the Circulating Area Improvements
- Wider pathways
- Better signage
- More seating options
- Designated zones for taxis and auto-rickshaws
These changes will ensure that passengers experience minimal delays and congestion when entering or leaving the station.
Eco-Friendly Designs in Station Renovations
Sustainability is at the heart of the station renovation efforts. The designs for the upgraded stations prioritize the use of natural sunlight and ventilation. This not only reduces energy consumption but also creates a more pleasant environment for passengers.
Benefits of Eco-Friendly Station Designs
- Reduced energy costs
- Improved air quality and comfort
- A cleaner, greener railway environment
These features align with India’s broader goals of reducing carbon footprints and promoting environmentally friendly infrastructure.
Additional Facilities for Passenger Comfort
In addition to the core infrastructure upgrades, several other passenger amenities are being introduced or enhanced. These include:
Waiting Halls
- Comfortable seating
- Modern lighting
- Charging points for devices
Eateries and ATMs
Passengers will have access to a wider range of eateries offering fresh food and beverages, as well as ATMs for added convenience.
Washrooms
All stations will have upgraded washrooms, designed to be more hygienic and accessible to all.
Internet Access
High-speed Wi-Fi is being installed at each station, making it easier for passengers to stay connected while they wait for their trains.
How These Developments Will Impact Passengers
The upgrades being implemented at these 15 stations are designed to enhance the overall travel experience. Lifts and escalators will drastically improve mobility for elderly passengers, the differently-abled, and those with heavy luggage. The circulating area improvements will help reduce overcrowding and make it easier for passengers to move through the station efficiently. Additionally, the eco-friendly designs will create a more pleasant environment for everyone.
Future-Proofing India’s Railway Infrastructure
The Nagpur Division’s upgrades are part of a larger effort to modernize India’s railway system, making it more accessible, sustainable, and passenger-friendly. As railway travel becomes increasingly popular, it is essential that infrastructure keeps pace with the growing demand.
The installation of lifts and escalators at 15 railway stations in the Nagpur Division marks a significant step forward in improving passenger accessibility and convenience. These developments, backed by a budget of ₹223 crore, will make a lasting impact on how passengers experience railway travel. The addition of eco-friendly designs, upgraded waiting halls, and circulating area improvements ensures that the future of railway stations is brighter, more comfortable, and more sustainable.
- Which stations in the Nagpur Division are getting lifts and escalators?
- Kamptee, Bhandara Road, Tumsar Road, Gondia, Wadsa, Chanda Fort, Chhindwara, Dongargarh, Seoni, Nainpur, Mandla Fort, and Rajnandgaon.
- How many lifts are being installed at these stations?
- A total of 29 lifts are being installed, with specific numbers at each station.
- Why are eco-friendly designs being implemented in the renovations?
- Eco-friendly designs help reduce energy consumption and create a more comfortable environment for passengers.
- What other amenities are being improved at these stations?
- Waiting halls, washrooms, eateries, ATMs, and internet access are all being upgraded.
- How will these upgrades benefit elderly and differently-abled passengers?
- Lifts and escalators will make it much easier for them to move through the stations, especially when navigating platforms.
