TFP Bureau, New Delhi, December 26, 2025: In a major push to strengthen the country\u2019s rail infrastructure and respond to the sustained rise in passenger travel, Indian Railways has unveiled an ambitious plan to double the train originating capacity of major cities over the next five years. The initiative, targeted for completion by 2030, aims to reduce congestion at busy stations, improve operational efficiency and significantly enhance nationwide connectivity.<\/p>\n
The plan, announced by Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, focuses on comprehensive augmentation of existing infrastructure while developing new facilities in and around major urban centres. According to the Railways, the rapid growth in passenger demand necessitates a sharp increase in the ability of metropolitan cities to originate and handle more trains.<\/p>\n
As part of the strategy, Indian Railways will expand existing coaching terminals by adding new platforms, stabling lines, pit lines and improved shunting facilities. In parallel, new terminals will be identified and developed within urban areas and their outskirts to decongest saturated central stations. These new hubs are expected to play a crucial role in balancing traffic load and improving punctuality.<\/p>\n
The plan also includes the development of modern maintenance infrastructure, including mega coaching complexes, to ensure faster turnaround of rakes and better upkeep of rolling stock. To support the increased number of trains, sectional capacity will be enhanced through traffic facility works, advanced signalling upgrades and multi-tracking projects at critical corridors and junctions.<\/p>\n
Railway officials said that while increasing terminal capacity, surrounding stations will also be strengthened to ensure even distribution of traffic. Citing Pune as an example, stations such as Hadapsar, Khadki and Alandi will be developed alongside platform expansion and stabling facilities at Pune station, creating a more balanced and efficient network.<\/p>\n
The capacity expansion exercise will cater to both suburban and non-suburban traffic, keeping in mind the distinct operational requirements of each segment. A comprehensive plan covering 48 major cities across the country is currently under consideration may see the list below. This plan will consolidate works that are already sanctioned, proposed or newly planned, with clearly defined timelines and outcomes to achieve the target of doubling train handling capacity.![\"\"](\"https:\/\/thefrontpage24.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2779.jpeg\")
Although the overall goal is to double capacity by 2030, Indian Railways expects tangible benefits to begin accruing much earlier. Capacity will be enhanced progressively over the next five years, allowing passengers to experience reduced congestion and improved services in the short and medium term. Actions under the plan have been categorised as immediate, short-term and long-term to ensure focused implementation.<\/p>\n
In addition to terminal-centric improvements, all Zonal Railways have been directed to prepare parallel plans to boost train handling capacity across their divisions. This includes addressing operational bottlenecks at stations and yards, strengthening sectional capacity and removing constraints that affect smooth train movement.<\/p>\n
Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw said the initiative reflects the government\u2019s commitment to modernising the rail network in line with growing demand. \u201cWe are expanding coaching terminals and enhancing sectional and operational capacities in major cities to meet rising passenger demand and reduce congestion. This move will significantly upgrade our railway network and improve nationwide connectivity,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
The large-scale capacity expansion is expected to play a vital role in supporting economic growth, improving urban mobility and reinforcing Indian Railways\u2019 position as the backbone of the country\u2019s transport system.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Expansion of coaching terminals, new urban hubs and upgraded signalling aimed at easing congestion and meeting surging passenger demand<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5168,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[116,353,27],"tags":[700],"class_list":["post-5166","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-breaking-news","category-ministry-of-railways","category-national","tag-indian-railways"],"yoast_head":"\n