Passenger-Centric Initiatives: Vande Bharat & Amrit Bharat
The year witnessed 15 new Vande Bharat Express trains and 13 Amrit Bharat Express trains becoming operational, expanding high-speed, comfortable travel to both AC and non-AC passengers. The upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper will redefine overnight journeys, offering speed, comfort, and modern amenities for long-distance travel.
Namo Bharat Rapid Rail services, connecting Bhuj–Ahmedabad and Jaynagar–Patna, strengthened regional mobility and short-to-medium distance travel, complementing India’s vision of a modern, interconnected railway network.
Modern Stations & Enhanced Passenger Experience
Indian Railways redeveloped 155 stations with upgraded facilities including lifts, escalators, modern toilets, digital signage, and local cuisine food kiosks. Over 1,182 Amrit Bharat stations are under modernisation. Solar-powered stations and free Wi-Fi at 6,117 stations enhance sustainability and passenger convenience.
Infrastructure Expansion: Tracks, Bridges, & Electrification
In 2025, over 900 km of new track lines were commissioned, alongside the renewal of 6,880 km rails and 7,051 km of complete track renewal. Sectional speeds increased to 130 kmph across 599 km of key routes. Electrification of 99.2% of the Broad Gauge network brings India ahead of global standards.
New bridge projects like the vertical-lift Pamban Bridge (2.08 km) and the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla link with the iconic Chenab Bridge have strengthened all-weather connectivity to remote regions, boosting tourism, trade, and regional growth.
Freight & Cargo Growth
Indian Railways’ freight network reached new heights with the development of Gati Shakti cargo terminals and record wagon production, positioning India as the world’s second-largest freight carrier. Dedicated Freight Corridors now run over 400 trains daily, enhancing logistics efficiency and economic growth.
Safety & Technology Enhancements
Safety remains paramount, with consequential train accidents dropping to historic lows (11 in 2025). The Kavach Automatic Train Protection system, upgraded to Version 4.0, covers 738 route km and integrates advanced signal and interlocking systems. CCTV systems are installed at 1,731 stations and 11,953 coaches, providing secure travel across India.
Major Projects & Milestones
In 2025, 42 railway projects worth over ₹25,000 crore were commissioned, including gauge conversions, new lines in the Northeast, and extensions of the Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project, with physical progress reaching 55.63% and financial progress at 69.62% as of November 2025.
Looking Ahead: 2026 & Beyond
With a strong foundation laid in 2025, Indian Railways is ready to further enhance passenger experiences, operational safety, and freight services in 2026. Vande Bharat Sleeper, Amrit Bharat trains, modern stations, and high-speed rail corridors promise a future-ready network serving the nation efficiently and sustainably.
