Lucknow's Gomti Nagar Station to be UP’s first privately-managed railway hub

Gomti Nagar Railway Station in Lucknow is set to become Uttar Pradesh’s first privately-managed station, a step towards the modernisation of Indian Railways. Under the newly introduced Integrated Station Facility Management System (ISFMS), private companies will now handle all services except for train operations, security, and ticketing. This move is designed to elevate passenger facilities and offer a world-class experience, similar to airport standards.

Private operators will now manage key services at Gomti Nagar Railway Station, including maintenance, catering, parking, and cleanliness, under the supervision of the Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA). The authority will grant 9-year operational licenses (with a possible three-year extension), collecting 15% of revenues while the remaining 85% goes to Indian Railways.

The station, serving 76 trains daily, has already undergone significant modernisation with solar-powered infrastructure, elevators, escalators, and commercial spaces. Future upgrades will include airport-style amenities, including food courts and retail zones, with Chandigarh station set for similar improvements.

While this public-private partnership aims to enhance passenger experience, critics warn of potential fare hikes and scrutinise the handover of security surveillance to private entities. The Railway Protection Force will maintain its traditional law enforcement role amid these changes.