(a) whether there is any plan to upgrade the small stations in the country and if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether the Railways has any proposal to upgrade the small stations of Assam;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) if not, the steps taken to upgrade facilities like passenger waiting rooms etc. at such stations?
(a) to (d): Modernisation/upgradation of Railway station in Indian Railways is a continuous and on-going process. At present, upgradation of stations has been undertaken under Adarsh Station Scheme. The scheme provides for development of stations, including small stations in the country. Selection of Railway stations under Adarsh Station Scheme is based on the identified need for upgradation of amenities. 1253 stations including 28 stations in Assam have been identified for development under this Scheme. Out of 28 stations in Assam, 27 stations have been developed so far and the remaining 01 station is planned to be developed by 2018-19. With a view to meet the expectations of the passengers, Indian Railways is making all out effort to provide improved facilities at all stations including those located in Assam.
List of 28 stations identified for development under Adarsh Station Scheme in Assam is as under:
Badarpur, Barpeta Road, Basugaon, Bijni, Fakiragram Jn., Goreswar, Gosaigaonhat, Hojai, Jakhalabandha, Jorhat Town, Karimganj Jn., Kokrajhar, New Bongaigaon, Rangapara North, Rangiya, Rowta Bagan, Salakati, Silchar, Srirampur, Tangla, Tihu, Tipkai, Udalguri, Bongaigaon, Jagi Road, Furkating, Tatibahar and Narangi.
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