Prayagraj: Panki Dham Railway Station in Kanpur has been transformed into a modern transport hub with upgraded passenger amenities and infrastructure under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, a redevelopment expected to boost both religious tourism and industrial growth in western Kanpur.Redeveloped at a cost of around ₹25 crore, the station is among the 156 railway stations being modernised across Uttar Pradesh under the Centre’s flagship programme. The project aims to enhance passenger convenience while integrating local cultural and architectural identity into the railway infrastructure.According to North Central Railway CPRO Dr Shivam Sharma, the station was originally established in 1981 to decongest Kanpur Central Railway Station and strengthen rail connectivity in the city’s western and suburban areas. “Panki Dham has witnessed a steady rise in passenger traffic over the years due to rapid industrialisation, expanding residential townships and the growing number of devotees visiting the renowned Panchmukhi Shri Hanuman Temple,” he said.The redevelopment has equipped the station with a two-storey building featuring spacious waiting halls, an executive lounge, retiring rooms, a modern ticketing area, expanded platform shelters, upgraded toilets, improved drinking water facilities and an advanced passenger information system. Digital display boards, clear signage and enhanced lighting have also been installed to improve the travel experience.Passenger movement has been eased with the construction of a 12-metre-wide foot overbridge and an additional 6-metre-wide foot overbridge. The station has also been made more accessible with ramps and lifts for persons with disabilities. Nearly 4,500 square metres of the station premises have been developed into a planned circulating area with separate entry and exit gates, organised parking facilities, landscaped green spaces and barrier-free access, Dr Sharma said.The station’s architectural design has been inspired by the spiritual significance of Panki Dham. Its façade, colour scheme and artistic elements draw from the heritage associated with Lord Hanuman, reflecting the region’s cultural identity while offering passengers a distinctive arrival experience.Railway officials said the upgraded station will serve a dual purpose. Besides catering to thousands of devotees visiting the Panchmukhi Shri Hanuman Temple, particularly on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Hanuman Jayanti, it will also support industrial activity in the Panki region, which is home to the Panki Thermal Power Station and several manufacturing, leather, textile and hosiery units.With its modern facilities and improved connectivity, the redeveloped Panki Dham Railway Station is expected to strengthen Kanpur’s position as a key centre for faith, commerce and industry while showcasing the evolving face of Indian Railways’ station redevelopment programme.
