Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, highlighted the significant achievements and future goals of Indian Railways during a discussion in the Rajya Sabha. He emphasized that Indian Railways offers safe, quality services at affordable fares, with passenger travel costs being considerably lower than in neighboring countries and Western nations. The cost per kilometer for rail travel is ₹1.38, but passengers pay only 73 paise, with a subsidy of around ₹60,000 crore in 2023-24.

Shri Vaishnaw also discussed Indian Railways’ environmental initiatives, including its aim to achieve 'Scope 1 Net Zero' by 2025 and 'Scope 2 Net Zero' by 2030. The electrification of railways has kept energy costs stable despite growing passenger and freight transport. The minister mentioned that locomotives manufactured at the Madhepura factory would soon be exported, and passenger coaches and locomotives are already being sent to various countries, including Mozambique, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.

With 1,400 locomotives produced in India this year—more than the combined output of America and Europe—and 2 lakh new wagons added, Indian Railways is set to transport 1.6 billion tons of cargo, ranking it among the top three countries in logistics. The Railway Minister also noted safety improvements, including the introduction of LHB coaches, long rails, electronic interlocking, fog safety devices, and the 'Kavach' system.

Regarding the recent New Delhi Railway Station accident, Vaishnaw assured that a high-level committee is investigating, and preventive measures are being implemented. He concluded by reaffirming the government's commitment to enhancing the railways as a modern, safe, and environmentally friendly transportation system.

Source/PIB