Question : Smart Station Scheme

(a) whether the Government’s first priority is modernisation of railways and safety of passengers and if so, the details of the scheme being implemented in this regard;
(b) whether the Government has held any negotiations with any developers or construction company for redevelopment of railway stations under the Smart Station Scheme;
(c) if so, the present status in this regard;
(d) whether Palghar railway station in Maharashtra has been chosen to be converted into a smart station in view of tourism and trade; and
(e) if so, the target fixed in the State for converting it into a smart station?

MINISTER OF RAILWAYS AND COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
(SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL)
(a) Yes, Sir. It is the continuous endeavour of Indian Railways to take measures for modernization under various segments of infrastructure services and safety of passengers.

(b) and (c) An MOU has been entered into between Ministry of Railways and Ministry of Urban Development for mutual cooperation between the two Ministries for integrated planning of redevelopment of railway stations in the cities included in the ‘SMART Cities’ scheme. Towards this end, an MOU between Rail Land Development Authority and National Building Construction Corporation has been signed on 30.06.2017 for implementation of station redevelopment projects. Contracts have been awarded for Gomtinagar, Charbagh and Puducherry stations.
(d) No, Sir.
(e) Does not arise.
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