Railway Minister Highlights Record Investments and Safety Achievements in Lok Sabha
Overview of Railway Operations and Investments
In a recent session of the Lok Sabha, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw provided an extensive overview of the Indian Railways' operations for the fiscal year 2025-26. He emphasized the benefits of investments made over the past decade for the country's lower and middle classes. Vaishnaw noted that a record 76,352 special trains were operated during the fiscal year, with approximately 25,000 trains running daily on the railway network. He attributed this achievement to the substantial budget allocation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for railway development across the nation, highlighting that the railway serves as a primary mode of transportation for the economically disadvantaged and middle-class citizens.
Record Freight and Safety Milestones
The railway sector also achieved a remarkable milestone this year by transporting 1,670 million metric tons of freight, marking a 3.25% increase compared to the previous year. Notably, there was a 6.73% rise in iron ore transport and a 3.41% increase in cement transport. The minister pointed out that only 16 serious accidents were recorded in the last fiscal year, the lowest in 50 years, underscoring a significant achievement in safety.
Modern Passenger Facilities Across Stations
Earlier this week, while responding to questions in the Rajya Sabha, Vaishnaw revealed that Indian Railways has initiated a comprehensive plan to establish modern passenger waiting areas at 76 stations nationwide. These areas aim to alleviate crowding on platforms during peak hours by providing organized spaces equipped with seating, drinking water, restrooms, ticket facilities, information displays, and security checks.
An ideal waiting area has already been inaugurated at New Delhi Railway Station, significantly reducing congestion. This facility enhances passenger convenience through additional ticket counters, automated ticket vending machines (ATVMs), public address systems (PAS), and electronic train information boards. For safety and comfort, the area is equipped with CCTV surveillance, luggage scanners, door frame metal detectors (DFMD), uninterrupted power supply, improved lighting, high-volume low-speed (HVLS) fans, and fire safety systems. Additionally, RO drinking water and separate restrooms for men, women, and differently-abled individuals are also available.