The Habibganj Railway Station holds the distinction of being India’s first privately managed railway station, operated under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
New Delhi: Indian Railways has undergone a remarkable transformation after Narendra Modi took office in 2014. From platform upgrades to the 100% electrification of railway tracks, the sector has seen unprecedented progress over the past decade. Adding to this momentum, Indian Railways has also redeveloped Habibganj Railway Station in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, setting new standards for modernization.
The Habibganj Railway Station holds the distinction of being India’s first privately managed railway station, operated under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
Here are some of the important details:
- Habibganj Railway Station was redeveloped by Bansal Group, a private infrastructure firm, in collaboration with the Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation (IRSDC).
- This was part of Indian Railways’ ambitious plan to modernise key stations across the country through private investment. Kamalapati railway station in memory of Gond queen Rani Kamlapati.
- The station code was also changed from HBJ to RKMP.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the airport-like redeveloped Habibganj railway station on November 15, 2021.
- While the station is operated and maintained by the private player, ownership remains with Indian Railways.
- This PPP model ensures better services without compromising national control.
- The station offers an airport-like experience with spacious concourse and waiting lounges, modern food courts and retail outlets, Energy-efficient design with solar panels, high-tech surveillance and security systems.
Rani Kamlapati Station (formerly Habibganj Railway Station) has set a benchmark for future railway station redevelopment projects across India. Major stations like New Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai CST are also being considered for similar transformations.
