Rani Kamalapati: India’s First Private Railway Station with Premium Airport-Style Amenities

The station has achieved a 5-star rating in GEM Sustainability certification from ASSOCHAM, recognizing its commitment to green, sustainable design and environmentally friendly practices. 

The redevelopment project of Rani Kamalapati station, executed through a public-private partnership, has established a benchmark and a model for other railway stations. Modeled after Germany’s Heidelberg railway station, Rani Kamalapati is recognized as India’s first world-class railway station.

Indian Railways stands as one of the largest and busiest rail networks in the world, handling immense traffic and serving millions of passengers every day. With over 7,300 stations and around 13,000 trains operating daily, it plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy and is a significant contributor to government revenue.

Located in Habibganj, a suburb of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Rani Kamalapati Railway Station (formerly known as Habibganj Railway Station before its renaming in November 2021) is India’s first private railway station offering world-class, airport-style amenities. The station is designed to deliver a superior experience for travelers, making it a unique model in India’s railway infrastructure. 

Rani Kamalapati Railway Station is part of the West Central Railway Zone (WCR) and serves as the headquarters for the Bhopal railway division. Its transformation is a part of Indian Railways’ broader initiative to modernize the country’s train services, which includes introducing new trains, enhancing station facilities, and developing dedicated freight corridors for better operational efficiency.

The station serves as a key hub for several premium trains, including the Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express, Duronto Express, Vande Bharat Express, Garib Rath Express, Gatimaan Express, and Tejas Express, all of which offer fast, comfortable travel for passengers across India.

Rani Kamlapati Railway Station features a modern design built on a public-private partnership (PPP) model, combining sustainable architecture with top-tier amenities. The station is fully accessible, with facilities designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities.

It also serves as a central hub for multi-modal transport, offering services and amenities that mirror those of international airports, such as a food plaza, a food court, and a climate-controlled waiting lounge, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience for passengers.

Elevators, escalators, and seating for 700 to 1100 passengers are incorporated within an open concourse.

Multilingual display boards have been set up to keep passengers updated on train schedules. 

Additionally, there are various publications related to tourism and culture, including leaflets, brochures, and coffee table books, which are provided for visitors at the station.

Parking Convenience: The station boasts a large covered parking area, ensuring smooth and efficient arrivals and departures for vehicles. It functions as a central node in an integrated multimodal transportation network, allowing easy transfers between various transportation options.

Comfortable Lounges and Waiting Areas: The air-conditioned lounges and waiting areas offer a comfortable environment for passengers. These spaces are designed to accommodate between 700 and 1,000 individuals in the free seating area, providing ample space to relax while waiting for their trains.

Shops and Dining Options: The station features a vibrant retail section with a variety of shops, offices, and popular stores, giving passengers plenty of shopping options. The food courts and diverse restaurants cater to a wide range of tastes, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Enhanced Accessibility: Designed with accessibility in mind, the station is fully equipped with high-speed escalators and elevators to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges, ensuring ease of movement for everyone.

Advanced Security Measures: Passenger safety is a top priority at the station, which is equipped with approximately 160 CCTV cameras to provide continuous surveillance and ensure a secure environment for all travelers. 

In the 18th century, Rani Kamlapati, the widow of the Gond ruler of Nizam Shah and chief of Ginnorgarh, became a legendary figure. She was the seventh wife of the king and the daughter of Chaudhari Kirpa Ramchandra. Known for her remarkable beauty and courage, Rani Kamlapati is credited with building the Kamlapati Palace, which is now an ASI-protected monument.

To honor her legacy and bravery, the government of Madhya Pradesh sent a letter to the Union Home Ministry, requesting the renaming of Habibganj Railway Station to Rani Kamlapati Railway Station. This move was aimed at celebrating the queen’s contributions and ensuring that her memory would be cherished for generations to come.