Pune Division Prioritizes Divyangjan and Senior Citizens in Amrit Bharat Station Scheme
Reported By Amit Singh
Pune, 18th April 2025: Under the Ministry of Railways’ ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, the Pune Division has accelerated the inclusion of Divyangjan-friendly and senior citizen-oriented facilities across 20 identified stations. The upgrade works are aligned with the scheme’s objective of enhancing accessibility, safety, and comfort for all passengers, particularly focusing on differently-abled individuals and the elderly.
At multiple stations, ramps, Divyangjan toilets, lifts, and escalators are either completed or under various stages of progress. Talegaon Station has achieved 100% completion of accessible toilet blocks and ramps. Work is also progressing on the installation of lifts and escalators at both entry and platform levels to assist those with mobility challenges.
“We are committed to create an inclusive and accessible environment at all our stations. Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, special attention is being given to facilities for Divyangjan and senior citizens—be it through ramps, lifts, accessible toilets, or user-friendly waiting areas. Our goal is to ensure every passenger travels with dignity and comfort,” said Padmasinh Jadhav, Additional Divisional Railway Manager, Pune.
Chinchwad Station reports 80% progress on lift and escalator installations at the main entrance and other key areas, while dedicated toilet blocks and renovated waiting areas are nearing completion. At Hadapsar, Divyangjan toilets have been fully constructed in Building C, with additional facilities under way in Building B.
Kolhapur Station has incorporated Divyangjan-accessible toilets at Platforms 1, 2, and 3, which are 95% complete. The station has also initiated improvements to the AC waiting room and ladies’ waiting area, catering to elderly passengers. Similarly, Sangli Station features a newly constructed second-class and upper-class waiting room with attached accessible toilets nearing 60% completion.
Stations such as Uruli, Baramati, and Kedgaon have completed the construction of accessible platforms, ramps, and seating arrangements for Divyangjan passengers. At Akurdi and Dehu Road, accessible toilet blocks are either completed or in advanced stages, supported by upgraded surface works and platform shelters.
Other stations in the division, including Satara, Karad, Ahmednagar, and Daund, are also progressing with the inclusion of lifts, signage, and illumination systems to guide and assist senior citizens and differently-abled passengers.
Under the scheme, emphasis is placed on seamless movement through platform connectivity (via FOBs), clearly marked Divyangjan facilities, tactile flooring, and barrier-free access points. Many stations are also integrating signage in Braille and planning future expansions to further enhance inclusivity.
The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme aims to make railway stations not just transit points but inclusive spaces with provisions for all age groups and physical abilities. The Pune Division’s current phase includes a mix of completed and ongoing works focused on long-term infrastructural transformation.
