NF Railway to add dozens more escalators, lifts at stations: Officials

Guwahati: The Northeast Frontier Railway has launched a major drive to install lifts and escalators at critical stations under its jurisdiction "in an effort to improve passenger experience and accessibility", a spokesperson said.

The initiative, which aims to meet the diverse requirements of passengers, particularly the aged, differently abled, and unwell, demonstrates the railway's dedication to promoting inclusive transportation infrastructure, according to the official.

As per reports, the main stations within the five divisions of NF Railways have 45 lifts and 35 escalators in operation, allowing for smooth transit within the busiest terminals. Notably, the preceding fiscal year saw the installation of four lifts, two at Barsoi and Jalpaiguri Road train stations, as well as four escalators, two each at Agartala and Kamakhya.

Under the 'Amrit Bharat Station Scheme,' efforts are ongoing to install 94 lifts at 46 railway stations, with work advancing briskly. Additionally, 26 escalators have been approved for installation at 13 stations under the same scheme.

A spokesperson said, "With rising passenger loads, NF Railway prioritizes the building of more elevators and escalators at important stations to ensure safe and convenient passenger entry and exit, as well as ease of cross-navigation inside railway facilities. These extra amenities not only aim to increase accessibility, but also to enhance the whole travel experience, making train services more user-friendly and inclusive."

Operating over 12,817 trains on an average day, the Indian Railway system transports approximately 24 million passengers across the nation. India has also begun the development of an indigenous bullet train expected to exceed speeds of 250 kilometres per hour (km/h) to reduce travelling time.

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