Why in the News?
PM recently stated that 77 stations in Tamil Nadu are being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), positioning the state as a hub for railway transformation.
About the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS):
- Launch: 2022 by the Ministry of Railways.
- Goal: Modernise and develop railway stations through phased, long-term upgrades.
- Master Plans: Each station gets a tailored roadmap for future improvements.
- Focus Areas: Multimodal integration, seamless passenger movement, and upgraded amenities.
- National Significance: Integral to India’s infrastructure push under the Viksit Bharat vision.
Key Features of ABSS:
- Passenger Comfort: Larger waiting halls, clean toilets, executive lounges, lifts, escalators, free Wi-Fi, and business-meeting zones.
- Accessibility & Connectivity: Expanded circulating areas, barrier-free access for persons with disabilities, and smooth links to other transport modes.
- Aesthetic Upgrades: Modern façades, clear signage, landscaping, and consistently clean premises.
- Technology & Information: Digital displays, real-time train info, and self-service e-ticketing kiosks.
- Sustainability: Energy-efficient systems, green-building elements, and water-conservation measures.
- Customised Development: Station facilities scaled to local footfall and needs—no one-size-fits-all approach.
[UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:
I. Indian Railways have prepared a National Rail Plan (NRP) to create a future ready railway system by 2028. II. ‘Kavach’ is an Automatic Train Protection system developed in collaboration with Germany. III. ‘Kavach’ system consists of RFID tags fitted on track in station section. Which of the statements given above are not correct? (a) I and II only (b) II and III only (c) I and III only (d) I, II and III* |
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