Ownership of India’s Iconic Trains The Vande Bharat Express, Shatabdi Express, and Rajdhani Express trains have become symbols of Indian Railways’ modernization. However, many people are surprised to learn that these trains are not directly owned by Indian Railways. Instead, they belong to the Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC).
IRFC owns the engines and coaches for these trains, leasing them to Indian Railways for 30 years. This means that while we see the Railways operating these trains, the actual ownership lies with IRFC. This arrangement is significant as IRFC owns about 80% of the coaches used in passenger and freight trains across the country.
This structure helps streamline financing and enables Indian Railways to focus on improving services and expanding infrastructure. According to recent reports, Indian Railways made impressive strides, manufacturing 7,134 coaches in FY25, marking a 9% increase from the previous fiscal year.
The focus on producing non-AC coaches caters to the needs of a wider audience. From 2004 to 2014, the annual average coach production was just over 3,300. Fast forward to 2014-2024, and the average rose significantly to about 5,481 per year. This uptick indicates the growing demand for railway services as passenger numbers continue to rise.
Experts believe the partnership between IRFC and Indian Railways is crucial for the future. The emphasis on modernizing rail infrastructure is not just about comfort but also about boosting economic growth. Many people rely on these trains for their daily commutes and long journeys, making efficient rail transport essential.
In addition, social media reactions often highlight the convenience and speed of these new trains. Passengers share their experiences online, praising the service improvement and the overall travel experience. This feedback is valuable for both Indian Railways and IRFC as they continue to refine their operations. Overall, the collaboration between these entities is vital for keeping pace with India’s evolving transportation needs.
For more detailed insights into the Indian Railways and its operations, you can refer to the [Ministry of Railways](https://www.indianrailways.gov.in) for official updates and reports.
Check out this related article: Jaishankar: India Embraces Its Bharat Roots More Than Ever
Source linkindian railways,Ministry of Railways,Rajdhani Express,Vande Bharat Express
