Lonand Junction Reimagined: Historic Station Gets Modern Makeover Under Amrit Bharat Scheme
Lonand Junction Reimagined: Historic Station Gets Modern Makeover Under Amrit Bharat Scheme
Lonand Junction in Satara district, Maharashtra, is set to usher in a new era as it prepares for its official unveiling on May 22, 2025, following a major revamp under the Indian Railways’ Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Once a modest colonial-era outpost, the station has now been transformed into a modern rail hub through a redevelopment project worth ₹10.48 crore.
Established during British rule as part of the Central Railway network, Lonand played a critical role in linking Pune, Satara, and Miraj. Over the decades, its strategic importance grew, especially for the transportation of sugarcane and agricultural goods from the region. Its classification as a Non-Suburban Group-6 (NSG-6) station and the addition of a double electric line have enhanced both its connectivity and capacity.
The redevelopment has completely upgraded the station’s infrastructure. Passengers can now experience a modern entrance hall with a gate and portico, an improved boundary wall, enhanced circulation areas, and a dedicated parking zone. The booking office and lobby have been modernized, a new waiting room has been added on Platform 1, and platforms have been resurfaced to improve safety. Additional seating and lighting further elevate the commuter experience.
Station Master H.R. Ramteke shared that approximately 400 passengers use the station daily, a figure likely to rise following the inauguration. “Locals are treating the station like a new tourist spot,” he remarked, highlighting the enthusiasm surrounding the transformation.
Kiran, a local shopkeeper and former corporate employee, emphasized how the improved facilities are boosting local employment opportunities. “It’s now easier for the youth to travel for work to cities like Pune, Satara, Kolhapur, and Miraj,” he said.
Currently, Lonand Junction serves a population of nearly 20,000 to 30,000 residents from Lonand and nearby villages such as Nira, Valha, and Wathar. The station remains a key transit point for farmers, students, and small business owners, with 16 trains halting daily—including the Koyna Express, Maharashtra Express, and Miraj Bikaner Superfast Express.
With this transformation, Lonand is not only preserving its historic legacy but also stepping confidently into the future as a vital transportation hub for the region.
