India’s First Privately Managed Railway Station Offers Airport-Like Experience – And It’s Not in Mumbai or Delhi
India’s First Privately Managed Railway Station Offers Airport-Like Experience – And It’s Not in Mumbai or Delhi
When people think of modern transportation hubs, cities like Mumbai, Delhi, or Bengaluru come to mind. But India’s first privately managed, airport-style railway station is actually located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh — far from the metros.
The Rani Kamlapati Railway Station, formerly known as Habibganj Railway Station, holds the distinction of being India’s first railway station redeveloped and operated under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The project was executed by the Bansal Group in collaboration with the Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation (IRSDC).
Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 15, 2021, the station was renamed in honor of Gond queen Rani Kamlapati, and the station code changed from HBJ to RKMP.
A New Era of Rail Travel
As part of Indian Railways’ larger initiative to modernize key stations across the country, Rani Kamlapati Station has been transformed to deliver an airport-like experience. Passengers now enjoy:
- A spacious concourse and modern waiting lounges
- Energy-efficient infrastructure with solar panels
- High-tech security and surveillance systems
- Food courts and branded retail outlets
While the ownership remains with Indian Railways, day-to-day operations and maintenance are handled by the private developer — offering better services without losing public control.
A Decade of Railway Transformation
The redevelopment of Rani Kamlapati station is a highlight in Indian Railways’ journey of transformation over the past decade under the Narendra Modi-led government. With 100% electrification, upgraded platforms, and an increased focus on passenger amenities, the national transporter is aiming to set new benchmarks in travel comfort and efficiency.
Following this successful model, similar station upgrades are now being planned for New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai CST, and other major junctions across the country.
