Bhopal station’s load to ease as Sant Hirdaram Nagar gets junction tag

Bhopal: Sant Hirdaram Nagar Railway Station has been accorded junction status, making it state capital’s second rail junction after Bhopal Railway Station.The move, which comes under the Centre’s Amrit Bharat Scheme, makes it the 21st railway junction in Madhya Pradesh.Railway officials said work is underway to enhance passenger amenities and increase halts for long-distance trains. A redevelopment project at Sant Hirdaram Nagar is in progress and is expected to be completed in 12 months. The upgraded station will match the standards and architectural aesthetics of Bhopal and Rani Kamalapati stations.At present, few trains from the Ratlam Division halt at Sant Hirdaram Nagar. Most continue to Bhopal Railway Station, where many undergo engine reversal before proceeding to the Bina–Katni line.The new status will allow trains to halt at Sant Hirdaram Nagar and run directly to the Bina line via Nishatpura, avoiding time-consuming reversals at Bhopal. Officials said this will streamline operations and reduce congestion at Bhopal Railway Station.Bhopal Railway Station currently handles over 150 passenger trains and 80 freight trains daily, causing heavy traffic pressure. The load often forces passenger trains to wait at outer signals, leading to delays.Commuters and transport experts welcomed the move, saying additional halts and infrastructure upgrades at Sant Hirdaram Nagar should improve punctuality and convenience.A revised timetable and new halts will be announced after redevelopment work and operational clearances are complete, officials said.