New Delhi
Indian Railways completed the renewal of 6,450 km of tracks and upgraded speeds to 130 kmph over 2,000 km in 2024, according to the Railway Ministry's year-end review on Sunday. The network also achieved 3,210 km of electrification, bringing the electrified broad gauge coverage to 97%.
A record-breaking 136 Vande Bharat trains and the inaugural Namo Bharat Rapid Rail were launched this year. Additionally, 21,513 special train trips during peak seasons enhanced travel options for passengers.
Modernization efforts include equipping 10,000 locomotives with Kavach safety technology, with bids invited for 15,000 km of network upgrades. Freight transport saw growth, with 1,473 million tonnes of goods loaded, a 3.86% increase, facilitated by the Eastern and Western Dedicated Freight Corridors.
Station redevelopment under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme progressed, with work initiated on 1,198 of 1,337 stations. Notable station projects commissioned include Rani Kamlapati, Gandhinagar Capital, and Ayodhya. These developments are expected to stimulate economic growth and job creation.
Indian Railways also embraced technology, digitizing heritage sites and introducing Digital Very High Frequency (VHF) communication sets to improve safety. The No Elephant Intrusion Detection System (EIDS) was implemented at critical locations to prevent accidents involving elephants.
The Railway Board is advancing the integration of the Coach Guidance System (CGS) and Train Indicators Boards (TIB) with the National Train Enquiry System (NTES) for enhanced operational efficiency.
With these milestones, Indian Railways continues its journey toward modernization and sustainable growth.