Indian Railways: Aiming for Global Excellence
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw addressed the Rajya Sabha today, outlining the significant achievements and future goals of Indian Railways. He emphasized the affordability and safety of rail travel in India compared to neighboring countries and highlighted the substantial subsidies provided to passengers. The Minister also discussed the ambitious electrification plans and the growing international presence of Indian Railways.
Subsidies and Affordable Travel
During the discussion, Minister Vaishnaw revealed that the cost of train travel in India is approximately ₹1.38 per kilometer, yet passengers are charged only 73 paise, reflecting a substantial 47% subsidy. In the financial year 2022-23, the government allocated ₹57,000 crore for passenger subsidies, which is expected to rise to around ₹60,000 crore in the current fiscal year. This commitment aims to ensure that rail travel remains safe and affordable for all citizens, particularly benefiting the economically disadvantaged.
The Minister pointed out that Indian railway fares are significantly lower than those in neighboring countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, and are also more affordable compared to Western nations, where fares can be 10 to 20 times higher. This pricing strategy not only supports domestic travelers but also enhances the global competitiveness of Indian Railways.
Electrification and Environmental Goals
Vaishnaw highlighted the importance of railway electrification in maintaining stable energy costs, even as passenger and freight volumes increase. Indian Railways is on track to achieve ‘Scope 1 Net Zero’ by 2025 and ‘Scope 2 Net Zero’ by 2030, showcasing its commitment to sustainability. The Minister announced that exports of locomotives from the Madhepura factory in Bihar will commence soon, with current exports including passenger coaches to countries like Mozambique, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Additionally, locomotives are being sent to various nations, including Mozambique, Senegal, and Myanmar. The production of 1,400 locomotives this year surpasses the combined output of the United States and Europe, while the addition of 2 lakh new wagons enhances the railway’s capacity. By the end of the fiscal year, Indian Railways is projected to transport 1.6 billion tons of cargo, positioning India among the top three countries globally in freight transport.
Safety Enhancements and Infrastructure Development
Addressing safety concerns, Minister Vaishnaw reported that 41,000 LHB coaches have been manufactured, with plans to convert all ICF coaches to LHB standards. The implementation of long rails, electronic interlocking systems, fog safety devices, and the ‘Kavach’ safety system is progressing rapidly. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for increasing railway support from ₹25,000 crore to over ₹2.5 lakh crore, which has facilitated significant infrastructure improvements.
Furthermore, the Minister announced the production of 50 Namo Bharat trains, designed for short-distance travel, offering both AC and non-AC options. In light of a recent accident at New Delhi Railway Station, a high-level committee is investigating the incident, with all relevant data secured for analysis. The government is taking proactive measures to prevent future occurrences.
Financial Health and Future Outlook
Vaishnaw assured that the government remains committed to serving the poorest citizens by increasing the number of general coaches by 2.5 times compared to AC coaches. The current production plan includes the manufacturing of 17,000 non-AC coaches. He noted that Indian Railways has successfully navigated the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, with rising passenger numbers and freight transport contributing to a robust financial outlook.
Currently, railway revenue stands at approximately ₹2.78 lakh crore, with expenses at ₹2.75 lakh crore, indicating that Indian Railways is effectively covering its major expenses through its own income. In conclusion, Minister Vaishnaw expressed confidence that Indian Railways will evolve into a more modern, safe, and environmentally friendly transportation system in the coming years.
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