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The Indian Railways is undergoing a significant transformation, as evidenced by the recent announcements stemming from the 2025 Budget. A massive investment of Rs 2.52 lakh crore is earmarked for upgrading the system, signaling a commitment to modernization and improved infrastructure. This substantial financial commitment underscores the government's dedication to enhancing the efficiency, capacity, and overall experience of rail travel across the nation. The plan encompasses a multifaceted approach, addressing various aspects of the railway system, from the introduction of new trains and coaches to the complete electrification of the network. This ambitious plan aims to not only improve the quality of service for passengers but also bolster India's position in global railway transportation.
A key component of this upgrade involves the introduction of a significant number of new trains. The plan calls for the addition of 100 Amrit Bharat trains, 50 Namo Bharat trains, and 200 Vande Bharat trains. These trains will offer various seating options, including sleeper and chair car classes, ensuring diverse choices for passengers across various budgets. The implementation of these new trains is crucial for expanding connectivity across the country, reaching areas previously underserved by efficient rail transportation. This increased accessibility will stimulate economic growth in these regions, creating opportunities and improving the lives of residents. The strategic placement of these routes will also help to alleviate congestion in existing, heavily trafficked areas, improving the overall efficiency of the railway network.
In addition to new trains, the Indian Railways is set to receive a substantial boost in rolling stock. The ambitious plan includes the manufacturing of 17,500 new non-AC general and sleeper coaches. This significantly expands the capacity of the system, aiming to alleviate overcrowding and address the growing demand for rail travel, especially among low-income passengers. The plan carefully maintains a 2:3 ratio of non-AC to AC coaches, ensuring that sufficient affordable options are available to cater to the needs of a diverse population. Furthermore, a special manufacturing programme is underway to expedite the production of these general coaches. The completion of 1,400 coaches by March 31, 2025, and the target of 2,000 more in the following fiscal year, highlight the commitment to rapid implementation and tangible results within a short timeframe.
Beyond the new rolling stock and trains, a crucial aspect of the upgrade focuses on infrastructure development. The 2025-26 Budget allocates funds for new projects valued at Rs 4.6 lakh crore, which will be completed over the next four to five years. These projects include the laying of new railway lines to extend the network's reach and enhance connectivity in less-served areas. Station redevelopments are also a significant part of the plan, aiming to modernize stations across the country, making them more passenger-friendly, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing. The construction of flyovers and underpasses will help to improve traffic flow around stations and reduce congestion, minimizing delays and enhancing the overall travel experience. The approval of 1,000 new flyovers further underscores the dedication to enhancing infrastructure and alleviating bottlenecks within the rail network.
The modernization efforts also extend to safety and efficiency. The investment in rail safety is increasing from Rs 1.08 lakh crore to Rs 1.16 lakh crore over the next year. This significant commitment reflects the priority placed on safety improvements, ensuring a more secure and reliable rail system for passengers and freight. Simultaneously, the ambitious goal of achieving 100 percent electrification of the Indian Railways by the end of the current financial year (2025-2026) is a landmark achievement that will dramatically improve the system's environmental footprint, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable railway system. This is a crucial step towards enhancing the operational efficiency and reducing the carbon emissions associated with rail transportation.
Finally, the Indian Railways is poised to achieve another significant milestone by March 31, 2025: becoming the second-largest cargo-carrying railway system globally, with a capacity of 1.6 billion tonnes, second only to China. This reflects the significant capacity and infrastructure improvements already implemented, making it a vital component of India's economic backbone. The combined effects of the planned upgrades, including the addition of new trains, coaches, and comprehensive infrastructure improvements, will further strengthen India's position in the global railway landscape. The substantial investments and ambitious targets demonstrate the government's clear vision for the future of the Indian Railways and its continued role as a cornerstone of national development and connectivity.