Parel has become one of the first railway stations to reopen after being modernised under the ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, launched in 2023. The upgraded station, which features an elevated parking lot, a spacious booking office, and enhanced passenger facilities, was inaugurated a few weeks ago. The project, costing Rs 194 million, is expected to significantly improve the daily commute for over 37,000 passengers. A Major Milestone for Mumbai’s Rail Network According to Dr Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway (CR), the station building is now fully operational, with an additional structure set to be completed nearby. Parel is among the 1,309 stations selected for redevelopment under the scheme, with 76 stations under Western Railway (WR) and 38 under CR. Other key suburban stations, Vikhroli and Kanjurmarg, are also undergoing upgrades at costs of Rs 191 million and Rs 270 million, respectively. Enhanced Infrastructure and Passenger Comfort The revamped station offers a host of modern features, including: Improved Accessibility – Additional lifts and escalators for better passenger movement. Eco-Friendly Initiatives – Swachh Bharat-inspired sewage treatment plants. Aesthetic Enhancements – Landscaped platforms and visually appealing architecture. Better Passenger Experience – Upgraded guidance systems, refurbished administration areas, and inclusive facilities for disabled passengers. Why Parel? Parel was prioritised for redevelopment due to its strategic location, being close to major hospitals such as KEM, Tata Memorial, Wadia Hospital, and Gandhi TB Hospital. It is also a thriving corporate hub with a growing IT and business presence. The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme aims to transform railway stations into world-class transport hubs, ensuring a more seamless and comfortable travel experience for commuters.