A major shift in India’s railway experience began not with a new train, but with a station that feels completely different from the ones we’re used to. The moment a traveller walks in, the wide concourses and calm, organised spaces stand out. And then the key detail becomes clear: this is India’s first private railway station, built under a PPP model and setting a new standard.
Rani Kamalapati Railway Station in Bhopal, earlier known as Bhopal’s Habibganj Railway Station, has been drawing attention for exactly this reason. Many visitors, even frequent train users, find themselves pausing for a moment because the air-conditioned waiting areas, clear digital boards, and airport-like infrastructure stand out sharply against the usual experience of Indian rail travel.
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New Era for Railway Travel: Why This Station Sets the Standard for the Future?
The station, managed by the Bansal Group, brings together several features that go beyond regular expectations: 24/7 power backup, purified water points, high-speed elevators, and well-marked multilingual signage. It also includes a large parking facility, retail shops, food courts, office spaces, and even a super-speciality hospital within the complex. With some of the best hotels in Bhopal easily accessible from here, the station may soon become a favourite among travellers.
Its focus on sustainability is another highlight. Solar panels, LED lighting, and efficient energy systems helped it earn a 5-star GEM Sustainability certification. Premium trains such as Vande Bharat, Shatabdi, and Rajdhani operate here regularly, making it a practical entry point for anyone planning a trip to Bhopal. For visitors exploring the region, this is one of the best starting points, especially with several all-inclusive Bhopal tour packages available.
Also Read: Top 8 Fastest Trains in India: Trains That Will Leave Flights in the Dust
Wrapping Up – What This Means for the Future of Rail Travel
As India’s first private railway station, it continues to set the benchmark. With its blend of heritage-inspired architecture and global-standard facilities, Rani Kamalapati Railway Station sets a strong direction for future railway redevelopment across India. The government is exploring more PPP-based models, and several major stations may join the growing list of private railway station in India in the coming years. This shift is exciting and could help turn everyday railway travel into a comfortable and premium experience.
As Indian Railways expands its services and digital systems, this is also a promising time to become an IRCTC agent and get up to ₹80,000 in commissions every month. The process is quick, simple, and increasingly rewarding.
Share your thoughts below. How do you imagine the future of railway travel in India?
FAQ’s – India’s First Private Railway Station
Which is the first private train in India?
The New Delhi-Lucknow Tejas Express is the first private train in India. It started its first commercial trip on October 4, 2019.
Which Indian railway station is private?
The Rani Kamalapati Railway Station in Bhopal is the first one that’s privately managed. Indian Railways still owns it, but a private company helps run it under a partnership, so it’s a mix of both.
Which state is set to have India’s first privately run railway station?
The first one is in Madhya Pradesh, and it’s the Rani Kamalapati Railway Station (it used to be called Habibganj). It’s been managed by a private group since 2017 through a public-private deal.
How many private railway stations are there in India?
Right now (as of 2025), there’s only one station that’s fully managed by a private partner: Rani Kamalapati in Bhopal. While lots of stations are getting a facelift, this one was the pioneer in going fully “private-managed.”
Which is the first private railway station?
The first one is the Rani Kamalapati Railway Station, which you might know as the former Habibganj. A private company completely redeveloped it and now manages it through a special partnership.
Which is the only private railway in India?
Shakuntala Railways, owned by a British company called the Central Province Railway Company (CPRC), was the only private railway in India; but it’s not running anymore. Nowadays, the government’s Indian Railways owns all the train lines, but private companies do run specific trains and manage a few stations.
Which is the 3 biggest railway station in India?
The 3 biggest railway station in Indiaare: Howrah Junction (it has 23!), Sealdah Railway Station (with 21), and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (which has 18). They’re all huge hubs in big cities!
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