New Delhi: Indian Railways is set to increase the maximum speed of hundreds of Mail and Express trains across the country. The Railway Board has granted preliminary permission for a plan that could allow several long-distance trains to travel at speeds up to 130 kmph, an increase from the current maximum of 110 kmph on various routes.
The initiative aims to enhance train rides, making them faster, more efficient, and more comfortable. The goal is to bring regular Mail and Express services up to the standards of luxury trains like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Vande Bharat.
Which Trains Could Benefit?
About 350 to 400 long-distance Mail, Express, and Superfast trains are expected to be affected by the proposed speed increase. The focus will be on trains equipped with LHB carriages, which are based on German technology and can safely operate at speeds of up to 160 kmph, contingent on necessary infrastructure upgrades.
This change is expected to positively impact many passengers who rely on traditional long-distance rail services for travel across India.
Why Is Railways Reviewing Train Timetables?
Alongside the speed enhancement, Indian Railways is conducting a thorough assessment of its train schedules. In the initial phase, officials are identifying routes where modernization has been completed or is nearing completion. These routes feature updated tracks and advanced electronic interlocking systems that can safely accommodate higher speeds.
The timetable revision aims to ensure that increasing train speeds lead to notable reductions in travel time while maintaining smooth network operations.
Could Regular Trains Match Rajdhani and Vande Bharat Speeds?
Currently, operational speeds of 130 kmph are typically reserved for luxury services such as the Rajdhani Express and Vande Bharat trains. If the proposal is implemented, several regular Mail and Express trains will be able to operate at similar speeds. This change could significantly reduce journey times for passengers traveling between major cities and states.
Railway officials estimate that around 40 to 45 crore people may benefit from the speed enhancement program each year, with improvements in punctuality and overall operational efficiency as additional advantages.
What Is Making Higher Speeds Possible?
The proposed speed increase is part of Indian Railways’ broader modernization program. Significant investments have been made in track strengthening, complete electrification of key routes, upgraded signaling systems, and the introduction of safer LHB carriages.
Electronic interlocking systems enhance train movement efficiency, while updated rails provide stability and safety for high-speed operations.
A Bigger Push Towards Modern Rail Travel
The expected speed increase aligns with Indian Railways’ aim to modernize passenger transportation throughout the country. Initiatives such as the introduction of Vande Bharat trains and extensive station renovations have contributed to a long-term transformation strategy.
If the plan is realized, millions of passengers on daily Mail and Express trains may soon experience significantly faster travel, enhancing the convenience of rail travel in India.
Source: www.republicworld.com.
