Indian Railways Pushes Forward with Safety Modernisation and Passenger Enhancements
Indian Railways is ramping up efforts to modernise its safety systems, enhance operational efficiency, and improve passenger services. The initiative comes as part of the broader push to improve the safety and comfort of rail travel across India, addressing critical issues while making long-term investments in infrastructure.
Safety has become a major priority for Indian Railways after several significant train accidents in 2024. From a goods train derailment in March to the collision of a passenger train with a goods train in Darjeeling in June, these incidents highlighted the urgent need for better safety systems. As a result, the railways have committed substantial resources to upgrading its signalling infrastructure. In particular, the replacement of mechanical signalling systems with modern Electrical/Electronic Interlocking (EI) systems is underway. These EI systems enhance the efficiency and safety of train operations by providing more accurate data to train operators. By the end of FY 2025, 25 out of 62 stations requiring upgrades had already been transformed to electronic interlocking, with nine zonal railways now fully free from mechanical signalling. Further boosting safety, Indian Railways has invested ₹1,547 crore in Kavach, an indigenously developed Automated Train Protection system, which is designed to prevent train collisions. The rollout of Kavach continues, with new specifications and trials, marking a significant leap forward in accident prevention.
Automatic Block Signalling (ABS) is also being installed on high-density routes, which will help improve capacity and reduce delays. In FY 2025 alone, 720 route kilometres of ABS have been completed, bringing the total to 4,906 kilometres of upgraded routes. While these initiatives are focused on operational safety, they are also aligned with an increased focus on improving the passenger experience. A key project under this effort is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, which aims to enhance facilities at railway stations across the country. To date, 1,337 stations have been identified for redevelopment, with work already underway in 1,197 of these stations. These improvements are designed to make stations more comfortable and accessible, with better amenities and more efficient services for passengers.
The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJK) is another initiative aimed at enhancing the welfare of railway passengers. Launched in 2024, these centres provide affordable medications and healthcare services at railway stations. As of November 2024, 18 new PMBJKs have been inaugurated, with 50 existing ones already providing essential health services to passengers. To enhance the catering experience, Indian Railways has introduced a new mobile catering policy, which has led to the establishment of 557 base kitchens serving 468 pairs of trains. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve food quality and service on trains. Additionally, the One Station One Product Scheme has been expanded, now operating at 1,900 stations and benefiting over 79,000 local artisans by offering them a platform to sell their products.
In terms of connectivity, Indian Railways has also focused on improving technological offerings for passengers. This includes the installation of train indication boards at 1,351 stations, Coach Guidance Systems at 866 stations, and free Wi-Fi at 6,112 stations, all aimed at enhancing the overall travel experience. As Indian Railways continues to modernise its safety systems and upgrade passenger amenities, it is clear that the organisation is making strides to enhance both operational efficiency and the quality of travel for millions of people across the country. These initiatives are not only designed to prevent accidents but also to make every journey more comfortable, accessible, and enjoyable.
