Union Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani has said that Indian Railways are not only integral to the country’s economy but also form a key part of its identity. He made these remarks during the virtual inauguration of the redeveloped Sullurupeta railway station in Andhra Pradesh by Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
Dr. Pemmasani said that Indian Railways transport over two crore passengers daily and are among the largest employers in the world. Emphasising the changing role of infrastructure in modern India, he stated, “Infrastructure today is not just about convenience—it is about confidence.”
The Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian Railways have been central to the country’s development strategy. “The Prime Minister’s vision is focused on transforming railway infrastructure, enhancing the passenger experience, and aligning stations with broader urban renewal goals,” he said.
Highlighting the redevelopment of Sullurupeta railway station, Dr. Pemmasani informed that the project was undertaken at a cost of ₹14.5 crore. The station holds special importance as it is located in the sacred district of Tirupati and serves as the nearest railhead to Sriharikota, India’s premier spaceport.
The Minister also outlined the significant progress made in the railway sector in Andhra Pradesh over the past 11 years. He said that budgetary allocation for the state’s rail projects has increased to ₹9,417 crore in 2025–26, over ten times the amount allocated during 2009–14. During this period, the state saw the addition of 414 km of new railway lines, 1,217 km of track doubling, and 3,748 km of electrification.
Dr. Pemmasani further added that 41 railway projects worth ₹34,700 crore have been sanctioned in Andhra Pradesh over the last 11 years. Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme alone, 73 stations in the state are being redeveloped.
