India is taking a big leap in making train travel more affordable. The government plans to produce 17,000 non-air-conditioned coaches over the next five years. This initiative, announced by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, aims to meet the growing demand for budget travel, especially for lower-income families.
Currently, about 70% of India’s train coaches are non-AC, with more than 650 million unreserved passengers using them every year. The addition of new coaches is essential as these vehicles play a vital role in connecting people and providing economical transport options.
In the coming years, Indian Railways will also roll out 100 new Amrit Bharat Express trains. These trains are specifically designed for long distances and high-demand routes, featuring a mix of general and sleeper coaches. Each train will include facilities for passengers with disabilities, ensuring everyone has access to reliable transportation.
The statistics speak for themselves. Unreserved coach travel surged to 651 million in just one year, showing a significant rise from 609 million the previous year. This increase means more trains and coaches are needed to keep up with the influx of passengers.
The planned 17,000 new coaches will not only help meet current demand but also prepare for future growth. The initiative focuses on affordable, accessible travel and supports India’s broader efforts in infrastructure development.
Indian Railways also plans to enhance its safety measures by implementing the Kavach system, which aims to prevent accidents by automatically stopping trains when necessary.
Overall, this expansion not only seeks to improve economic mobility but also strengthens the manufacturing sector in India. The plan includes working with local production units, supporting the government’s “Make in India” initiative.
By prioritizing affordable transportation, Indian Railways remains a key player in India’s growth and development. For more insights on this initiative, you can read the official announcement from the Ministry of Railways here.
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