Indian Railways Upgrades 54,600 km of Tracks from 2014 to 2026: Ashwini Vaishnaw
Synopsis
Indian Railways has renewed an impressive 54,600 km of tracks between 2014 and 2026, significantly enhancing train safety and operational efficiency. Discover how these upgrades have transformed the rail network's capabilities.
Key Takeaways
Indian Railways renewed **54,600 km of tracks** from 2014 to 2026.
Over **80%** of the network now supports speeds of **110 kmph** or higher.
Significant growth in tracks capable of **130 kmph** and above.
Continuous inspections ensure track safety and integrity.
Investment of **Rs 765 crore** approved for infrastructure upgrades.
New Delhi, March 11 (NationPress) The Indian Railways has successfully renewed 54,600 km of tracks from 2014 to 2026 to enhance the safety of train operations, as stated in Parliament on Wednesday.
Currently, over 80% of the rail network is capable of sectional speeds reaching 110 kmph or higher, a significant increase from 40% in 2014.
Tracks that accommodate speeds of 130 kmph and above have seen a 3.5-fold increase, soaring from 6.3% to 22.4% during this timeframe.
Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized, "The upgradation and renewal of tracks is a continuous process. Track renewal is conducted based on established criteria such as age, traffic volume, and overall condition."
He added, "Track renewal projects are meticulously planned and executed, prioritizing track condition and other factors to ensure safety for train operations at designated speeds."
Regular inspections of the tracks on Indian Railways are carried out by authorized personnel following a specified schedule. This includes daily patrols, on-foot inspections, trolley inspections, and footplate/rear window evaluations by officials.
In addition, to accurately gauge track geometry health, Track Recording Cars (TRC) and Oscillation Monitoring Systems (OMS) are deployed at scheduled intervals.
The entire Indian Railways network is covered by TRC and OMS runs. Actions are promptly taken based on inspections to maintain track safety, as explained by the minister.
To fortify the infrastructure and technology of Indian Railways, the government has recently approved multiple upgradation projects worth Rs 765 crore aimed at improving operations, increasing line capacity, and modernizing communication systems across critical sections of the network.
According to the Railways Ministry, the approved initiatives include enhancements to electric traction systems on two high-density freight and passenger corridors, as well as extending the optical fiber communication backbone across the Vadodara and Mumbai Central divisions of the Western Railway.
Point of View
The continuous upgrades to Indian Railways' infrastructure reflect a commitment to enhancing safety and operational efficiency, vital for the growing demands of transport in India. The substantial investment underscores the government's dedication to modernizing the rail system.
NationPress
7 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total length of tracks renewed by Indian Railways?
Indian Railways has renewed a total of **54,600 km of tracks** from 2014 to 2026.
How has the speed capability of the rail network changed?
Currently, over **80% of the rail network** can operate at speeds of **110 kmph** or more, compared to **40% in 2014**.
What measures are taken for track safety?
Regular inspections are conducted, including daily patrols and the use of **Track Recording Cars (TRC)** and **Oscillation Monitoring Systems (OMS)**.
What is the recent investment in Indian Railways' infrastructure?
The government has approved several upgradation projects worth **Rs 765 crore** to enhance operations and capacity.
Which areas of the rail network are being upgraded?
The upgrades include enhancements to **electric traction systems** and improvements in communication systems across the **Vadodara and Mumbai Central divisions**.
