How are Non-AC Coaches in Indian Railways Increasing to 70% with a Focus on the Underprivileged?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 70% increase in non-AC coaches within Indian Railways.
- 17,000 additional non-AC coaches planned for production over 5 years.
- General coaches usage rising, with 651 crore passengers expected by 2024-25.
- Focus on affordability and access for lower-income groups.
- Introduction of Amrit Bharat Express trains enhances travel options.
New Delhi, July 30 (NationPress) The share of non-AC coaches in the fleet of trains operated by Indian Railways has remarkably risen to approximately 70 percent. To further enhance this initiative, a dedicated manufacturing program is set to produce an additional 17,000 non-AC general and sleeper coaches over the next five years, as stated by the Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, during a parliamentary session.
Indian Railways has significantly improved the amenities available for passengers who prefer general class travel.
In the previous financial year of 2024-25, a total of 1,250 general coaches were deployed across various long-distance trains.
With a focus on affordability, Indian Railways continues to operate numerous trains, including Mail, Express, and passenger trains, aimed at benefiting the general populace, including those from lower-income backgrounds.
Additionally, the introduction of non-AC Amrit Bharat services and Namo Bharat Rapid Rail services has provided superior services to a wider audience, especially targeting lower income groups, according to the minister.
Moreover, Indian Railways plans to roll out 100 more Amrit Bharat Trains, as highlighted by Vaishnaw.
Statistics reveal a growing trend in passenger numbers utilizing general/unreserved coaches, with figures increasing from 553 million in 2022-23 to 609 million in 2023-24, and projected to reach 651 million in 2024-25.
The capacity for non-AC passengers has now escalated to 5.4 million seats, representing 78 percent of the total seating, while AC accommodations constitute the remaining 22 percent.
To enhance the comfort for passengers using General and non-AC sleeper coaches, the current policy governing the composition of Mail/Express trains allows for 12 General and Sleeper class non-AC coaches alongside 8 AC coaches in a standard train of 22 coaches.
In addition, to accommodate passengers seeking unreserved seating, Indian Railways operates unreserved non-AC passenger trains, MEMU, and EMU services, providing affordable travel options beyond the unreserved accommodations available in Mail and Express services.
The development of Amrit Bharat Express trains, the manufacturing of MEMU trains, and the increase in general coaches clearly reflect Indian Railways' commitment to meeting the demand for travel in the general class, the minister asserted.
The fully non-AC Amrit Bharat trains currently feature a configuration of 11 General Class coaches, 8 Sleeper Class coaches, 1 Pantry car, and 2 Second class cum Luggage cum Guard Van & Disabled Friendly Compartment, all designed to meet the needs of the general public by offering a modern and comfortable travel experience in the non-AC segment.