The Indian Railways has announced plans to double the number of trains starting from 48 major cities by the year 2030. This step is being taken to handle the fast-growing number of passengers across the country.
Major cities included in this plan are Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Patna, Bhopal, and Puri, among others. The Railway Ministry said this move will help meet the rising travel demand in a planned and gradual manner over the coming years.
To implement this plan, Railway Board Chairman Satish Kumar has written to the General Managers of all Zonal Railways. He has asked them to increase train-handling capacity in their divisions and prepare for future passenger growth.
Railway zones have been directed to identify locations for new train terminals in and around major urban areas. These new terminals will help reduce congestion at existing stations and allow more trains to start and end their journeys smoothly.
The plan covers both suburban and non-suburban rail services. Railways have been asked to consider the different needs of daily commuters, long-distance travellers, and seasonal rush passengers while planning new terminals and services.
Officials said that creating additional terminals and improving infrastructure will help improve punctuality, reduce overcrowding, and provide better travel comfort for passengers. The initiative is part of Indian Railways’ long-term strategy to modernise operations and improve passenger services in line with growing urbanisation and mobility needs.