The Impressive TimesNew Delhi : Indian Railways has reached a remarkable milestone by upgrading over 23,000 track kilometres to support train speeds of up to 130 km/h. In addition, more than 54,000 track kilometres have been enhanced to allow speeds of up to 110 km/h. This large-scale modernization initiative is a significant step toward improving the speed, safety, and efficiency of train operations, ensuring seamless connectivity across the country.
The upgrades reflect Indian Railways’ commitment to enhancing passenger experience and freight movement. Key improvements include strengthening track infrastructure for high-speed operations, implementing advanced signalling systems to enable precise communication between trains and control centres, and installing fencing at vulnerable locations to enhance safety. These measures not only allow trains to travel faster but also improve operational reliability and reduce the risk of accidents.
The Ministry of Railways has emphasized that these upgrades will lead to greater operational efficiency. With faster trains and reduced travel times, the modernization effort is expected to benefit both passengers and freight customers, offering a more reliable and efficient transport solution. By focusing on the adoption of advanced technologies and infrastructure, Indian Railways is also aligning itself with global standards in rail transport.
In addition to infrastructure enhancements, the financial performance of Indian Railways has shown a positive trend. Between April and December of the current fiscal year, the ministry reported a 4% rise in earnings, reflecting the impact of increased operational efficiency and higher utilization of upgraded tracks.
This modernization drive is part of a larger vision under the “Mission Raftaar” initiative, which aims to double average speeds of freight trains and significantly increase the speed of passenger trains. The Railways is also actively working toward electrification of its network and the introduction of semi-high-speed and high-speed trains, such as the Vande Bharat Express, on key routes.
The upgrades hold immense significance for regional connectivity. By enabling faster and more efficient rail services, they contribute to the socio-economic development of the nation by enhancing accessibility to remote areas and fostering trade and tourism.
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