For most Indians, trains are more than just a means of transport — they’re part of daily life, connecting millions of people and stories across the country. In 2024, the Indian Railways carried close to 20 million passengers every single day. During the festive season, those numbers surged even higher, with more than 30 million people travelling by train in just one day. It’s no wonder the railways are often called the lifeline of India.
Spanning nearly 68,000 kilometres and operating over 7,400 stations, the Indian Railways is among the largest railway networks in the world. Managed by the Ministry of Railways, it continues to be a crucial part of India’s infrastructure and economy. But amid its vast network lies one station that stands out — not just for its modern look but for being India’s first privately operated railway station.
Located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, the Habibganj Railway Station made history when it became the country’s first privately managed station in 2017. Later renamed Rani Kamalapati Railway Station in 2021 to honour the brave Gond queen, it marked a new era for Indian railways. The redevelopment was carried out under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model by the Bansal Group, in collaboration with the Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation (IRSDC).
Today, Rani Kamalapati station looks and feels more like an airport than a traditional train hub. With its bright, spacious interiors, passenger lounges, food courts, and retail outlets, it offers comfort and convenience rarely associated with railway travel. The station also leads the way in sustainability, equipped with solar panels and advanced security systems.
This successful experiment in modernisation has inspired plans to replicate the model in other major stations, including those in New Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai. Even though Rani Kamalapati is operated by a private entity, it remains under the ownership of Indian Railways — symbolising a partnership that brings together public responsibility and private efficiency.
In a country where trains have always been a symbol of connection and progress, Rani Kamalapati station stands as a shining example of how India is reimagining its journey into the future — one platform at a time.
