Why has 78% of seats in India’s trains been designated as non-AC to support the underprivileged?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Indian Railways has made significant strides in enhancing travel facilities for economically weaker passengers, with 54 lakh non-AC seats now available, making up 78% of total seating. This initiative aims to provide affordable travel options, demonstrating the commitment to support low-income families.
Key Takeaways
- 54 lakh non-AC seats available for passengers.
- Non-AC seats comprise 78% of total seating capacity.
- Production of 17,000 non-AC coaches planned over five years.
- Introduction of Amrit Bharat Express with modern amenities.
- Focus on cleanliness with bio-toilets and mechanized cleaning.
New Delhi, Aug 6 (NationPress) The Indian Railways has made substantial improvements in travel amenities aimed at assisting economically disadvantaged travelers. The total number of seats designated for non-AC passengers has risen to 54 lakh, which represents 78 percent of the overall seating capacity, while AC seating accounts for the remaining 22 percent, as per information disclosed in Parliament on Wednesday.
With the increased provision of general coaches, the number of passengers utilizing these unreserved coaches has shown a positive trend, escalating from 553 crore in 2022-23 to 609 crore in 2023-24 and projected to reach 651 crore in 2024-25, according to Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written response to a question in the Lok Sabha.
In the fiscal year 2024-25, a total of 1,250 general coaches have been deployed in various long-distance routes. To meet the travel demands of low and middle-income households, the Railways plans to manufacture an additional 17,000 non-AC coaches (both general and sleeper) over the next five years.
The proportion of non-AC coaches on Indian Railways is a remarkable 70 percent.
Additionally, the minister highlighted the introduction of a fully non-AC modern train called the Amrit Bharat Express, which currently operates 14 services. The current configuration of the Amrit Bharat includes 11 general class coaches, 8 sleeper class coaches, 1 pantry car, and 2 luggage cum Divyangjan coaches.
These trains are characterized by high-speed capabilities and superior safety standards, offering enhanced features and amenities, including a CCTV system in all coaches and luggage areas, upgraded toilet designs, improved ladder configurations for easier access to berths, and better LED lighting along with charging sockets.
To meet the needs of passengers seeking unreserved accommodations, Indian Railways operates a variety of unreserved non-AC passenger trains, including MEMU and EMU services, in addition to unreserved coaches available in Mail and Express trains.
The existing policy concerning the composition of Mail and Express trains allows for 12 general class and sleeper class non-AC coaches alongside 8 AC coaches in a total of 22 coaches, as noted by the minister.
Moreover, Indian Railways prioritizes the maintenance and cleanliness of trains and stations to ensure passenger comfort and a pleasant travel experience. Significant efforts have been made to enhance sanitation at railway stations and within coaches, including the installation of bio-toilets in all passenger coaches to prevent the discharge of human waste onto the tracks, resulting in unprecedented cleanliness levels at platforms and stations.
Additionally, mechanized cleaning processes are conducted at major stations and aboard trains, with on-board housekeeping services in place to maintain cleanliness and hygiene during the train's journey, the minister added.
Point of View
It is commendable that Indian Railways is prioritizing the needs of economically weaker passengers. The increase in non-AC seating capacity reflects an understanding of the challenges faced by low and middle-income families. This initiative not only enhances accessibility but also reinforces the government's commitment to social equity in public transport.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Indian Railways seats are non-AC?
As of the latest report, 78% of seats in Indian Railways are designated as non-AC.
How many non-AC coaches are being produced?
Indian Railways plans to produce an additional 17,000 non-AC coaches over the next five years.
What is the Amrit Bharat Express?
The Amrit Bharat Express is a fully non-AC modern train with 14 services currently operational.
How does Indian Railways ensure cleanliness?
Indian Railways has implemented measures like bio-toilets and mechanized cleaning to maintain cleanliness in trains and stations.
How many passengers used general coaches last year?
The number of passengers traveling in general unreserved coaches increased from 553 crore in 2022-23 to 609 crore in 2023-24.
