Mumbai, July 21 -- Paralakhemundi railway station in Odisha's Gajapati district has been redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS) at a cost of Rs 170 million (Rs 170 mn) and is among 59 stations in the State to be upgraded under the programme. The redevelopment has achieved 100 per cent physical and financial completion and was scheduled to be inaugurated by the Prime Minister on Friday. The project blends conservation and modernisation while aiming to enhance passenger convenience. Officials indicated the upgrade aims to integrate local design motifs with durable materials to reduce maintenance needs and support tourism.
The new station building covers 1,375 sq. metres and takes architectural inspiration from the historic Paralakhemundi Royal Palace, incorporating murals and charcoal artwork that reflect the region's cultural heritage. Platforms have been improved and shelters expanded to accommodate increased passenger flow. A new 12-metre-wide foot overbridge links platforms and improves circulation.
Passenger amenities now include a spacious waiting hall, enhanced seating, a catering unit and a One Station One Product (OSOP) outlet to promote local goods and artisans. The station has been made Divyangjan-friendly with lifts connecting both platforms, tactile pathways, ramps, Braille maps, accessible toilets and low-height ticket counters along with designated parking spaces. Additional conveniences include automatic ticket vending machines and RO drinking water facilities.
Safety and information systems have been upgraded with a public announcement system, coach position display system, train indication boards, CCTV surveillance and firefighting equipment. Sustainability measures comprise rainwater harvesting, solar power and landscaped green spaces around the station. Paralakhemundi is part of a wider national mission to modernise stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and seeks to preserve the architectural and cultural identity of each location while delivering modern passenger services. The scheme's emphasis on heritage conservation alongside modern services is intended to boost regional connectivity and passenger experience.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.