The KSR Bengaluru Rajdhani Express has earned the title of India’s richest train. It brings in the most revenue for Indian Railways, surpassing even the popular Shatabdi Express and the newer Vande Bharat.
The Rajdhani Express isn’t the fastest train on the network, yet it stands out as the top revenue generator. In the financial year 2022-23, it generated over ₹1.76 billion, while accommodating around 509,510 passengers on its route from Hazrat Nizamuddin in Delhi to KSR Bengaluru City Junction.
Other Heavyweights
While the KSR Bengaluru Rajdhani takes the top spot, several other trains also contribute significantly to Indian Railways’ earnings. The Sealdah Rajdhani Express, running between New Delhi and Kolkata, generated approximately ₹1.28 billion and carried about 509,164 passengers during the same financial year. The Dibrugarh Rajdhani Express, servicing the route between New Delhi and Dibrugarh in Assam, earned around ₹1.26 billion with 474,605 travelers.
Interestingly, the Mumbai Tejas Rajdhani Express ranks fourth. It transported around 485,794 passengers and earned ₹1.22 billion in the same period.
A Backbone of Indian Railways
Despite the introduction of modern trains like the Vande Bharat, the classic Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains continue to play vital roles in India’s rail network. They carry a large volume of passengers and remain essential to the operation of Indian Railways.
The Bigger Picture
According to a report by the Indian Railways, they manage one of the world’s largest railway networks, running approximately 13,000 passenger trains daily. In recent years, the growth of rail travel has seen a steady increase in passenger numbers, even post-pandemic. Research indicates that 72% of travelers prefer trains for long-distance travel due to comfort and cost-effectiveness.
As these trains adapt to the needs of modern passengers, they are also crucial for India’s economy. Their revenue supports infrastructure development and maintenance, underscoring the importance of rail travel in the country.
In conclusion, the KSR Bengaluru Rajdhani Express may not hold the title of the fastest train, but its financial impact certainly makes it noteworthy. Its success reflects the enduring popularity of rail travel in India, making it a lifeline for countless passengers daily.
For more insights on the topic, you can check this Indian Railways report.
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Rajdhani Express,India