India’s First Private Railway Station with Airport-Like Facilities Is Located in Bhopal, Not Delhi or Mumbai
Indian Railways, one of the largest rail networks in the world, has modernised several of its stations in recent years. However, one station stands out as India’s first privately operated and world-class railway station — Rani Kamalapati Railway Station, formerly known as Habibganj, located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
Contrary to popular assumptions, this advanced facility is not in New Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, or Bengaluru, but in a suburban area of Bhopal.
What Makes Rani Kamalapati Station Unique?
The Rani Kamalapati Railway Station is India’s first station developed and operated under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, bringing airport-level facilities to train travel.
- The station was redeveloped by Bansal Group in collaboration with the Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation (IRSDC).
- It offers features like centralised air-conditioning, food courts, retail outlets, high-speed escalators, lifts, and a large covered parking zone.
- Additional services include automobile showrooms, a convention centre, hotel space, and plans for a super speciality hospital.
This PPP model allows private management of operations and services while ownership remains with Indian Railways, maintaining government oversight.
Key Facilities and Features
Rani Kamalapati station offers a seamless, airport-like experience with amenities that rival the best transportation hubs in the world.
- 24×7 power backup and high-tech security systems ensure operational continuity and passenger safety.
- A spacious concourse, VIP waiting lounges, and digital displays enhance comfort and connectivity.
- The station building features energy-efficient designs, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems.
- Modern washrooms, drinking water points, and Wi-Fi services further add to the convenience.
The station code was updated from HBJ to RKMP, marking a symbolic rebranding aligned with its transformation.
Historical and Strategic Significance
Named after Gond Queen Rani Kamlapati, the station honours local heritage while embracing modernity.
- The redevelopment was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 15, 2021, positioning it as a model for future railway infrastructure.
- Strategically located on the New Delhi–Chennai main line, RKMP connects major metro cities and serves as a key junction for central India.
- It also reduces the load on the Bhopal Junction, streamlining passenger movement in the region.
Indian Railways and the Vision for Modernisation
Indian Railways has been the backbone of the Indian economy for over 160 years, operating more than 13,000 trains daily across 7,308 stations.
- The shift toward private involvement and infrastructure upgrades reflects the Railways’ commitment to efficiency, innovation, and sustainability.
- Projects similar to RKMP are being planned for major hubs like New Delhi, Mumbai CST, Ahmedabad, and Secunderabad, signaling a new era of passenger-centric rail travel.
Oldest Running Train and Indian Railways Milestones
While Indian Railways focuses on the future, it also preserves its legacy. The Howrah–Kalka Mail, in service since 1866, is the oldest continuously running train in India.
- Originally called the East India Railway Mail, it was later renamed Kalka Mail and finally became Netaji Express, believed to have been used by Subhas Chandra Bose in 1941.
- Other iconic trains include the Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express, Duronto, Vande Bharat, Gatimaan, and Tejas Express — each symbolising speed, comfort, and connectivity.
Final Thoughts
The Rani Kamalapati Railway Station in Bhopal represents a landmark moment in India’s infrastructure journey. It blends modern engineering with heritage preservation, offering passengers an unmatched travel experience. As India moves towards building smart, world-class stations, RKMP serves as a blueprint for innovation, efficiency, and public-private collaboration.
