Indian Railways is known as the lifeline of the country. Railway stations play a crucial role in rail operations and also serve as the identity of their respective cities. Most railway stations are at the heart of the city, around which the city’s economic, social, and cultural activities revolve. Therefore, it is necessary to develop these stations in such a way that they not only function as transit points but also become symbols of the city’s identity. When beautiful and grand stations are developed based on the cultural, spiritual, and religious heritage of the city, they leave a lasting impression on both domestic and international tourists arriving by train.

India's global credibility has increased under the able leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. While laying the foundation stone for the redevelopment of various railway stations, the Prime Minister stated, “India, which is moving towards the goal of development, is at the beginning of its Amrit Kaal. There is new energy, new inspiration, new resolutions.” Inspired by the Hon’ble PM, Indian Railways initiated the rejuvenation of more than 1,300 railway stations. Now, in less than two years, 103 redeveloped railway stations are set to be inaugurated under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS). This pace of redevelopment is unprecedented. The Prime Minister has often said that the projects for which he lays the foundation stone are also inaugurated by him. This reflects the new culture of a developing India, where the speed of project completion has significantly increased. Indian Railways deserves appreciation for the remarkable pace at which this work has been accomplished.

Of the more than 1,300 stations being developed under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, the 103 completed stations feature grand entrance gates, attractive facades, high-mast lighting, modern waiting rooms, ticket counters, upgraded toilets, and accessible ramps for Divyangjan. Additionally, shelters, coach indication systems, and digital displays have been installed on the platforms. All facilities are Divyangjan-friendly. At the same time, a glimpse of Gujarat’s folk art, culture, and traditions can also be seen at every station.

Derol Railway Station: Gateway to Growth with Heritage at Heart

Nestled in Gujarat’s Panchmahal district, Derol may be a small village, but it stands at the threshold of rapid industrial and infrastructural transformation. Strategically located near a growing Special Economic Zone (SEZ), this NSG-5 station on the Vadodara–Godhra Rajdhani route is now poised to meet the rising demands of a modern, expanding urban center, thanks to its rejuvenation under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

With an investment of over Rs 27 crore in Phase I, Derol Railway Station has undergone a significant facelift while preserving its original architectural character. The old station building has been restored with care, maintaining its heritage appeal even as it embraces new functionality and design.

A major highlight is the development of a second station entry, complete with its own modern station building, porch, booking office, and direct connectivity to platforms via a 12-meter-wide foot overbridge with ramps and lifts. This second entry ensures smoother passenger movement and better city-side integration, backed by dedicated parking facilities and landscaped green zone.

Passenger experience at Derol has been meaningfully enhanced through upgrades including Platform resurfacing, installation of tactile tiles, warning markers, and low-height water taps. Renovated Platform shelters offer improved crowd management and comfort during harsh weather. Aesthetic enhancements include upgraded lighting, a spacious concourse hall with ample seating, an efficient queuing system at booking counters. Interiors have been reimagined to create large, comfortable waiting halls, while the addition of shaded porches ensures comfortable access for passenger pick-up and drop-off. Inclusive accessible amenities for Divyangjans includes Divyangjan-friendly toilets, ramps, dedicated parking areas. The revamped circulating and parking area, now restructured has dedicated vehicle lanes and pedestrian walkways for seamless traffic flow.

To improve operational efficiency and the travel experience, the station now boasts of modern signage systems for smooth navigation and communication. New Coach Guidance Display Boards (CGDBs) have been installed that offer real-time coach positions for incoming trains. 

Derol Station today reflects a harmonious balance of legacy and progress—a well-connected, future-ready station designed to serve the spiritual, residential, and industrial communities of this rapidly developing region.

The wheels of the train symbolize the wheels of the country’s development. Railway stations are key centres driving the nation’s progress. Every Indian has a role to play in the advancement of Indian Railways and its stations. This participation must be further strengthened. It is also our collective responsibility to protect and maintain these stations with cleanliness and care.

AP/IJ/GP

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(Release ID: 2130426)