Gomti Nagar Railway Station: A New Era of Travel

Lucknow’s Gomti Nagar Railway Station has become the first in Uttar Pradesh to operate under private management through the Integrated Station Facility Management System (ISFMS), introducing airport-style amenities and a modernised passenger experience.

Under this model, Indian Railways retains control over core functions such as train operations, ticketing, and security, while private operators manage catering, parking, cleanliness, and passenger support services. The Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) will supervise the initiative, granting private firms nine-year licences—extendable by three years. Revenue will be shared, with 85% retained by Indian Railways and 15% allocated to RLDA.

Redeveloped and previously inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the station now features solar-powered infrastructure, elevators, escalators, enhanced commercial areas, and improved sanitation. It handles 76 trains daily across six platforms, serving key routes to Gorakhpur, Chhapra, and Barauni, solidifying its role as a major transit hub in eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Chandigarh Railway Station has also been included in the pilot phase of this model. If successful, the initiative could be expanded to other stations across the country. While experts believe the public-private partnership could improve efficiency and passenger experience, they also caution about potential concerns related to service charges, accountability, and quality assurance over time.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.