How is Indian Railways Modernizing with 35,000 km of New Tracks?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 35,000 kilometers of new railway tracks laid.
- 46,000 kilometers have been electrified.
- 40,000 new coaches manufactured in 11 years.
- First bullet train project construction progressing rapidly.
- India now operates 156 Vande Bharat services.
New Delhi, Oct 15 (NationPress) Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the significant advancements in railway modernization in India, achieved under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that the achievements over the past 11 years are evident and substantial.
While addressing the International Railway Equipment Exhibition (IREE) in New Delhi, Vaishnaw revealed that a remarkable 35,000 kilometers of new railway tracks have been established, along with 46,000 kilometers of tracks electrified over this period.
“Friends, our Prime Minister Modi has prioritized railway modernization, and the outcomes are clear,” Vaishnaw commented.
“In the past 11 years, we have built 35,000 kilometers of tracks and electrified 46,000 kilometers, which is an incredible achievement, alongside the manufacture of 40,000 new coaches,” he added.
He further highlighted that around 40,000 new coaches have been produced, showcasing India's expanding capabilities in railway infrastructure and technology.
Describing these accomplishments as “phenomenal,” the minister asserted that the transformation of the Indian Railways illustrates the government’s long-term vision for a modern, sustainable, and passenger-friendly transportation system.
Regarding India’s inaugural bullet train project, Vaishnaw stated that construction is progressing swiftly, with 325 kilometers already completed.
“I recently visited the Surat and Mora stations, which are part of the first section set to open in 2027,” he mentioned.
The minister also provided updates on the expanding array of modern train services, noting that India currently operates 156 Vande Bharat services, 30 Amrit Bharat services, and 4 Namo Bharat services, all of which have gained immense popularity among travelers.
During his address, Vaishnaw praised the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for organizing the IREE and acknowledged the involvement of equipment manufacturers and railway organizations.
However, he encouraged the CII to aim higher and envision a railway exhibition on a global scale that could exceed Germany’s InnoTrans.
“India deserves a much larger railway conference and exhibition. I urge the DG of CII to reimagine the entire concept and encompass all facets of railway transportation—from technology and design to software and high-speed networks,” he concluded.