DHARAMSHALA: The Baijnath-Paprola railway station in Himachal Pradesh has received a major infrastructure and passenger experience upgrade under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the revamped station virtually from Bikaner on Wednesday (May 22, 2025).
The transformation of the station, located in Kangra district on the Pathankot-Joginder Nagar narrow-gauge line, was completed at a cost of Rs 7 crore.
The newly modernised station is now equipped with a host of contemporary amenities designed to provide passengers with enhanced comfort and convenience. From an air-conditioned waiting lounge and clean toilets to digital information displays and disability-friendly infrastructure, the station reflects the government’s broader push to elevate the standard of Indian rail travel.
Enhanced passenger amenities with focus on accessibility
Among the key facilities introduced are a baby-feeding room, retiring rooms and 20 stainless-steel benches placed strategically across the platform. High-speed Wi-Fi, water ATMs, a food court and an upgraded overbridge have also been added to improve the overall commuter experience.
Passengers with special needs now benefit from features such as dedicated toilets, ramps, a separate booking counter and specially marked parking areas. The addition of train information display boards and coach guidance systems further simplifies navigation for travellers.
Design rooted in local culture and utility
The architectural design of the station has been developed with inspiration from traditional Himachali elements, capturing the essence of Kangra valley’s spiritual and natural beauty.
A new platform shelter covering 1,544 square metres has also been built, offering weather protection for waiting passengers.
The station also includes two water booths and a water cooler, catering to the hydration needs of daily commuters and tourists alike. Parking facilities have been expanded to manage increased footfall expected due to improved services and growing tourism in the region.
Similar revamp underway at 3 other Himachal stations
The Baijnath-Paprola railway station serves as a crucial gateway for pilgrims visiting famous temples such as Baijnath, Jawalamukhi, Chintpurni and Masroor, in addition to tourists heading to the historic Kangra Fort. The station’s redevelopment is expected to provide a significant boost to local tourism and employment while making travel smoother for residents.
The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, under which the redevelopment was carried out, envisions the modernisation of 1,309 railway stations nationwide. In Himachal Pradesh, similar revamps are underway at Amb-Andaura, Palampur and Shimla stations, which will soon feature roof plazas, children’s play areas, enhanced lighting, and expanded food courts.
Dignitaries present at the Baijnath-Paprola station during the event included Kangra MP Dr Rajeev Bhardwaj, Rajya Sabha MP Indu Goswami and Baijnath MLA Kishori Lal.
Pallavi Sharma
