PM Modi flags off Bikaner-Mumbai Express from re-developed Deshnoke station in Rajasthan

Jaipur, May 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated 103 re-developed railway stations across India under the Amrit Bharat Station Yojana. The nationwide event marked a significant milestone in India’s railway modernisation drive. Among the redeveloped stations, eight are located in Rajasthan, including Deshnoke, Gogamedi, Bundi, Mandalgarh, Govindgarh, Mandawar-Mahua Road, Fatehpur Shekhawati, and Rajgarh.

These stations have been transformed with state-of-the-art infrastructure, improved amenities, and design elements inspired by local architecture and culture, reinforcing the central theme of the initiative -- development with heritage. The Prime Minister flagged off the new Bikaner-Mumbai Express Train from Deshnoke railway station in Bikaner district, further enhancing regional connectivity.

During the event, PM Modi interacted with schoolchildren, appreciated their patriotism-inspired artwork, and joined them in chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai".

The Prime Minister also visited a special exhibition gallery at the station, dedicated to honouring the martyrs of the nation. The ceremony in Deshnok was attended by several dignitaries, including Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal.

A large number of locals and schoolchildren also took part in the event, celebrating the transformation of their railway stations into modern transit hubs.

The Amrit Bharat Station Yojana is one of Indian Railways’ most ambitious redevelopment projects, targeting the transformation of over 1,300 stations with an estimated investment of Rs 1 lakh crore.

These revamped stations are being equipped with modern waiting halls, upgraded restrooms, energy-efficient lighting, digital signage, improved accessibility, and enhanced security.

The goal is to create future-ready railway stations that are not only functional and passenger-friendly but also preserve and showcase India’s rich cultural heritage.

Celebrations were simultaneously held at all eight redeveloped stations in Rajasthan, featuring cultural performances, flag hoisting, and participation from local leaders and citizens.

According to officials, the upgraded stations symbolise a new era of travel experience in the country and reaffirm the government’s commitment to infrastructure-led growth and regional development.

Reader Comments

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Rahul K.

Finally some good news for Rajasthan's connectivity! The Bikaner-Mumbai Express will be a game-changer for business travelers and tourists alike. Hope they maintain the cleanliness standards though - that's where our railways often falter. 🚆

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Priya M.

As someone from Bikaner, I'm so proud to see our small town station getting this makeover! The local architecture integration is beautiful - they've kept the Shekhawati fresco style. My grandparents used to tell me stories about traveling from this station decades ago. What a transformation!

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Amit S.

Good initiative but I hope they don't neglect basic maintenance. The new stations look great in photos, but will they stay clean and functional after 6 months? We need accountability along with infrastructure spending.

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Sunita R.

The exhibition honoring martyrs at the station is a wonderful touch! 🇮🇳 Our children should learn about their sacrifices while traveling. More such initiatives needed across India. Jai Hind!

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Vikram J.

Connecting smaller towns like Deshnoke to major cities is exactly what India needs. But what about the frequency? One express train isn't enough - hope they introduce more connections soon. Also, please improve the food options at these stations!

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Neha P.

The energy-efficient lighting and digital signage are much needed upgrades! Hope they extend these facilities to more stations soon. Our railways are finally catching up with global standards. 👏

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Karan D.

While the station upgrades are impressive, I wish they'd focus equally on improving

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