In 2025-26, India’s railways achieved impressive milestones. Revenue hit around Rs 80,000 crore, while freight movement soared to 1,670 million tonnes. This growth reflects the railways’ commitment to enhancing efficiency and service.
Back in 2014, only 20% of the railway network was electrified, heavily relying on diesel fuel. Fast forward to March 2026, and that number jumped to 69,873 route kilometres electrified, a massive leap from just 21,801 rkm a decade ago. This shift saved 180 crore litres of diesel in 2024-25, reducing crude oil imports and saving around Rs 6,000 crore, according to government data.
India now leads in railway electrification, surpassing the UK (39%), Russia (52%), and even China (82%). Such advancements not only save costs but also contribute to cleaner energy use.
Safety and technology also took significant strides. The Kavach Automatic Train Protection System was rolled out across over 3,100 route kilometres, with plans for another 24,400 km. This system enhances safety by preventing collisions.
Additionally, the Video Surveillance System (VSS) was expanded to 1,874 railway stations, utilizing artificial intelligence for better monitoring and passenger safety. This tech integration is crucial as it aligns with global trends in transportation safety.
For passenger convenience, the Integrated Passenger Information System (IPIS) linked with the National Train Enquiry System (NTES) is now active at 1,405 stations. This system ensures timely announcements and improved communication for travelers.
The railway track infrastructure saw significant upgrades. From 2014 to 2026, about 54,600 km of tracks were renewed, leading to enhanced reliability. The length of tracks capable of accommodating speeds over 110 km/h surged from 31,445 km to over 85,000 km, allowing for quicker travel times.
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper service in January 2026 marked another milestone. It carried 1.21 lakh passengers over 119 trips within its first three months. By the end of FY 2025-26, nearly 3.98 crore passengers traveled on the Vande Bharat Express, which has now transported over 9.1 crore passengers overall.
To support low- and middle-income families, Indian Railways launched the Amrit Bharat Express. This new service includes fully non-AC modern trains designed for comfort and safety while offering affordable travel options. As of March 18, 2026, 60 Amrit Bharat Express services operate across the network.
These developments reflect a crucial shift in India’s railway system, focusing on electric efficiency, safety, and accessibility. As more people opt for train travel, these improvements pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future in public transportation.
For a deeper look into the electrification of railways, you can read more from Economic Times.
