Indian Railways Prioritizes the Common Man: 78% of Seats Offered as Non-AC to Support Low-Income Travelers

Indian Railways has made significant strides in enhancing travel for economically weaker passengers. They’ve boosted the number of non-AC seats to 54 lakh, which represents an impressive 78% of all rail seats. In contrast, AC seats make up just 22%. This shift aims to provide better access to train travel for low and middle-income families.

According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the number of passengers using these general unreserved coaches has surged—from 553 million in 2022-23 to 651 million by 2024-25. This increase shows how critical affordable travel is for many people.

To further meet growing demand, Indian Railways plans to produce an additional 17,000 non-AC coaches over the next five years. Interestingly, around 70% of the current train coaches are already non-AC. This commitment to expanding services helps ensure accessibility for those who cannot afford air conditioning while traveling.

The recently launched Amrit Bharat Express is a noteworthy addition. It’s a fully non-AC train designed with comfort and modern amenities in mind. Each train includes several general coaches, sleeper coaches, a pantry car, and facilities for passengers with disabilities, enhancing both safety and travel experience. This train also comes equipped with features such as CCTV cameras and improved sanitation facilities.

In addition to traditional services, Indian Railways also runs standalone unreserved non-AC passenger trains, as well as MEMU and EMU services, which provide additional affordable travel options.

Vaishnaw emphasized that a standard 22-coach Mail/Express train now includes 12 non-AC coaches. This configuration increases availability for those traveling without reservations. Moreover, every passenger coach is outfitted with bio-toilets to keep rides cleaner, avoiding human waste discharges on tracks—a big step for station hygiene.

Cleaning services have also seen improvements, with mechanized cleaning at major stations and onboard housekeeping ensuring passengers enjoy a tidy environment throughout their journeys. Access to data from IANS indicates these initiatives are crucial as public sentiment increasingly favors cleanliness and convenience in public transport.

In a broader context, this focus on expanding non-AC travel options contrasts sharply with trends in developed countries, which often prioritize luxury and convenience over accessibility. The push by Indian Railways resonates particularly well in a country where affordable travel remains essential for millions.

As travel continues to evolve post-pandemic, rail services that prioritize affordability while maintaining cleanliness and modern amenities may set a standard for public transportation worldwide.

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