Introduction
Indian Railways has been making significant strides in infrastructure, passenger safety, and operational efficiency. Union Minister of Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, recently highlighted the achievements and future roadmap of Indian Railways in the Rajya Sabha. From affordable fares to sustainability goals, electrification, and global expansion, Indian Railways is emerging as a world-class transport system.
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Affordable Railway Fares and Passenger Subsidy
One of the key aspects of Indian Railways is its commitment to providing affordable travel. Compared to neighbouring countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, India offers the lowest railway fares. In contrast, fares in Western nations are 10 to 20 times higher.
Currently, the cost of travel per kilometer by train is ₹1.38, while passengers pay only 73 paise. This means the government provides a 47% subsidy to passengers. In FY 2022-23, Indian Railways provided a subsidy of ₹57,000 crore, which increased to ₹60,000 crore in FY 2023-24. The goal remains to offer safe and high-quality services at minimal fares.
Railway Electrification and Sustainability Goals
To enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs, Indian Railways is focusing on electrification. Despite a growing number of passengers and freight transport, energy costs have remained stable.
- Indian Railways is targeting Scope 1 Net Zero’ by 2025 and Scope 2 Net Zero’ by 2030
- Large-scale electrification is underway to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
- Electrification ensures lower fuel expenses and enhances sustainability.
India’s Rail Manufacturing & Global Expansion
Indian Railways is now an exporter of locomotives, passenger coaches, and railway parts. This strengthens its global presence and contributes to India’s economic growth.
Madhepura Factory (Bihar): Soon to export locomotives.
Passenger Coaches Exported To: Mozambique, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka.
Locomotives Exported To: Mozambique, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Bangladesh.
Bogie Underframes Exported To: UK, Saudi Arabia, France, Australia.
Propulsion Parts Exported To: France, Mexico, Germany, Spain, Romania, Italy.
Record Production in Railways
India has outpaced the US and Europe in locomotive production:
- 1,400 locomotives manufactured in one year.
- 2 lakh new wagons added to the railway fleet.
- 1.6 billion tons of cargo transported in FY 2023-24, making India one of the top three cargo transporters in the world alongside China and the US.
Railway Safety Measures and Infrastructure Development
The safety of passengers is paramount for Indian Railways. Several measures have been undertaken to modernize and secure railway operations:
- 41,000 LHB coaches manufactured to replace older ICF coaches.
- Long rails, electronic interlocking, fog safety devices, and the Kavach' safety system implemented.
- Namo Bharat trains: 50 trains are being manufactured, featuring both AC and non-AC coaches for short-distance travel.
Increase in General Coaches for Affordable Travel
To cater to the needs of the economically weaker sections, Indian Railways is increasing the number of general (non-AC) coaches by 2.5 times compared to AC coaches.
- 17,000 non-AC coaches are planned for production.
- Focus on ensuring that affordable travel options remain widely available.
Indian Railways' Financial Growth & Post-Pandemic Recovery
ndian Railways has successfully overcome the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Revenue growth has been impressive, enabling the railway to finance its major expenses independently.
- Railway revenue: ₹2.78 lakh crore.
- Railway expenses: ₹2.75 lakh crore.
- Self-sufficient model ensuring sustainable operations.
Conclusion
Indian Railways is undergoing a transformative phase, focusing on modernization, sustainability, and affordability. With large-scale electrification, enhanced safety measures, and global expansion, the railway network is on track to becoming a world leader. As highlighted by Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, the government’s commitment to infrastructure investment, passenger welfare, and financial stability will shape the future of Indian Railways as a safe, modern, and eco-friendly transport system.
