Pune Stations Set for Major Revamp Under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

Pune is set to debut two newly refurbished railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, aimed at modernizing infrastructure and enhancing passenger experience.

PuneAmrit Bharat Station SchemeRailway InfrastructureSustainabilityUrban DevelopmentReal Estate PuneMay 19, 2025

Pune Stations Set for Major Revamp Under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

Real Estate Pune:Pune’s fast-growing urban footprint is poised to receive a major infrastructural upgrade as two railway division stations, refurbished under the national Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, are set to be inaugurated on 22 May by the country’s top leadership.

This redevelopment initiative is part of a broader national effort to modernize railway infrastructure, ensuring it meets global standards in sustainability, passenger comfort, and multimodal connectivity. The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, conceived as a flagship transformation plan by Indian Railways, is aimed at upgrading over 1,300 stations across the country. The vision goes beyond mere aesthetic or structural improvements—it intends to redefine the travel experience for millions by creating transit hubs that are sustainable, inclusive, and well-integrated into the urban fabric of rapidly expanding cities such as Pune.

For Pune, a city at the crossroads of technological growth and infrastructural strain, the scheme’s execution holds the promise of reshaping how people interact with public transport. These upgraded stations will not only provide enhanced commuter experiences but are also expected to catalyze local economic activity, support equitable mobility, and foster low-carbon travel patterns. Railway officials confirmed that both stations have been retrofitted with a range of modern amenities, including spacious air-conditioned waiting halls, digital information systems, well-maintained sanitation facilities, and robust security measures. Escalators, elevators, and tactile paving have been installed to support barrier-free access for differently-abled and elderly passengers, reflecting the government’s broader commitment to inclusive infrastructure.

Energy efficiency and environmental responsibility form a core part of the new design philosophy. The stations now feature solar panels, LED-based lighting systems, and rainwater harvesting infrastructure. Landscaped green spaces and waste management systems have also been introduced to ensure that these public transport hubs contribute to the city’s sustainability goals, rather than detract from them. Urban mobility experts noted that Pune’s inclusion in the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme represents a strategic opportunity to align with national decarbonization efforts. With Indian Railways targeting net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, every green intervention—be it solar roofing or water recycling—adds incremental value to this long-term mission.

The integration of heritage and local cultural narratives into the station redesign is another striking feature. Art installations and murals reflecting the cultural legacy of Pune have been incorporated into the stations’ interiors. This cultural approach not only helps in preserving the city’s historic identity but also serves to make railway travel a more immersive experience for locals and visitors alike. Beyond infrastructure, the upgraded stations are expected to trigger a multiplier effect on urban development. With improved last-mile connectivity, including parking zones, pick-up/drop-off points, and multimodal transport integration, daily commuters will benefit from smoother transitions between transport modes. The enhanced facilities are also anticipated to attract new business ventures in retail, food, and logistics—further reinforcing Pune’s image as a thriving and accessible urban center.

Railway officials said the redeveloped stations will be equipped with 24×7 CCTV surveillance and upgraded lighting systems, which will significantly improve safety, especially for women and other vulnerable commuters. Feedback mechanisms have also been incorporated into station operations to make future upgrades more data-driven and passenger-focused. Local civic leaders and residents’ associations have welcomed the project, viewing it as a much-needed intervention in the face of Pune’s growing population and mobility demands. City-based urban planners emphasized that this station modernization must be part of a broader urban transport strategy that includes electrified buses, cycle-sharing programs, and pedestrian-friendly streets to ensure sustainable, long-term impact.

Experts believe that such interventions represent the beginning of a more integrated and environmentally conscious approach to infrastructure development. The railway stations, once perceived as dated and congested, are now being reimagined as community assets that facilitate economic exchange, cultural expression, and climate resilience. The Indian Railways’ approach under the Amrit Bharat scheme underscores the shift from reactive upgrades to proactive planning. Officials involved in the implementation noted that emphasis was placed on long-term utility, lifecycle cost efficiency, and ease of maintenance—qualities that had been missing from many earlier infrastructure initiatives.

With the inauguration of these Pune stations on the horizon, stakeholders across the public and private sectors are watching closely. The stations are being seen as test beds for replicating success across other cities and regions. As the scheme scales up, the learnings from Pune—both in terms of execution and public reception—will likely inform the next phase of railway transformation in India. What remains essential, experts warn, is that such developments continue to prioritize green design, equitable access, and citizen participation. The public’s ability to influence and co-own these spaces will ultimately determine whether they truly become modern, sustainable commons or merely short-term visual upgrades.

As Pune positions itself as a modern metropolis of the future, these two railway stations stand as a symbol of what thoughtful, people-centered infrastructure can achieve. From reducing emissions to easing daily commutes, they mark a significant milestone in India’s journey towards greener and more inclusive urban growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme?

The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is a flagship transformation plan by Indian Railways aimed at upgrading over 1,300 railway stations across the country. It focuses on modernizing infrastructure to meet global standards in sustainability, passenger comfort, and multimodal connectivity.

What new amenities have been added to the refurbished stations in Pune?

The refurbished stations in Pune have been retrofitted with modern amenities such as spacious air-conditioned waiting halls, digital information systems, well-maintained sanitation facilities, escalators, elevators, and tactile paving for barrier-free access.

How does the scheme contribute to sustainability?

The scheme incorporates energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. The stations feature solar panels, LED-based lighting systems, rainwater harvesting infrastructure, and waste management systems to contribute to the city’s sustainability goals.

What cultural elements are included in the station redesign?

The station redesign includes art installations and murals reflecting the cultural legacy of Pune. This helps preserve the city’s historic identity and makes railway travel a more immersive experience for locals and visitors.

What impact is expected from the upgraded stations?

The upgraded stations are expected to enhance commuter experiences, catalyze local economic activity, support equitable mobility, and foster low-carbon travel patterns. They are also anticipated to attract new business ventures and improve safety and security.