Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has unveiled a transformative vision for Indian Railways, committing to one of the most significant overhauls in its 170-year history. The ambitious roadmap includes launching 1,000 new trains over the next five years and operationalising the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train by 2027. This strategy aims to modernise infrastructure, enhance passenger experience, and pivot towards a sustainable, freight-led economic model that aligns with India’s climate goals.
The scale of this transformation is underpinned by a massive financial commitment, with the annual budget soaring from ₹25,000 crore to ₹2.52 lakh crore. This investment has already fuelled unprecedented expansion, with 35,000 kilometres of track added in the last 11 years—a pace outstripping many developed nations. This positions the network for a future where rail is not just a mode of transport but a central pillar of the nation’s green infrastructure and economic strategy.
A core component of this vision is a strategic shift towards rail freight, which is over 50% cheaper and 95% more eco-friendly per tonne-kilometre than road transport. By prioritising this segment, the Railways is positioning itself as a key driver of decarbonisation, reducing logistics costs for businesses and significantly lowering the nation’s carbon emissions. This move is critical for creating more sustainable supply chains and fostering cleaner air in urban and industrial corridors across the country.
Ultimately, this overhaul transcends mere transportation; it is an integrated plan for sustainable national development. By blending Japanese high-speed technology with domestic innovation and focusing on green logistics, Indian Railways is charting a course towards global leadership in sustainable mobility. The success of this vision will be measured not just in kilometres of track laid, but in its contribution to building a more economically competitive, environmentally responsible, and equitable India.
Also Read: Dindigul Vande Bharat Halted by Fire Extinguisher Mist Panic
