New Delhi | March 18,2026 | SKY LINK TIMES
Indian Railways Affordable Travel Push 45% Subsidy:
Indian Railways is strengthening its focus on affordable travel by increasing the number of non-AC general and sleeper class coaches while continuing to offer significant subsidies to passengers. The government has stated that fares remain subsidised by nearly 45 per cent on average, ensuring cost-effective travel for millions across the country.
Table of Contents
Focus on Affordable Travel
According to the Ministry of Railways, nearly 70 per cent of train coaches currently fall under the general and sleeper categories, highlighting the system’s emphasis on budget-friendly travel. Additional general coaches are being steadily added, with around 1,250 coaches introduced in 2024–25 and about 860 more planned for 2025–26.
This move is aimed at catering to the large section of passengers who rely on economical travel options for daily commuting and long-distance journeys.
Massive Subsidy Support
The Railways provides an annual passenger subsidy of approximately ₹60,000 crore, significantly lowering ticket prices. In addition, suburban networks—particularly in cities like Mumbai—receive an extra subsidy of around ₹3,000 crore.
This financial support ensures that rail travel remains accessible, especially for low- and middle-income groups.
Growth in Freight and Infrastructure
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that freight loading has increased significantly—from around 1,055 million tonnes in 2013–14 to nearly 1,650 million tonnes today—making Indian Railways one of the world’s largest freight carriers.
Infrastructure development has also accelerated. Electrification has expanded to nearly 47,000 km, with over 99 per cent of the broad-gauge network now electrified. Track construction has seen rapid growth, with approximately 35,000 km of new tracks laid in recent years compared to about 15,000 km earlier.
Also Read:https://skylinktimes.in/bengal-elections-2026/
Safety and Modernisation Measures
Safety continues to be a key priority for Indian Railways. The number of Road Over Bridges (ROBs) and Road Under Bridges (RUBs) has increased from around 4,000 to nearly 14,000. Automatic signalling systems have also expanded from about 1,500 km to over 4,000 km.
The introduction of safer Linke-Hofmann-Busch (LHB) coaches has been another major step, with around 48,000 such coaches added in recent years. These coaches are designed to enhance passenger safety and comfort.
Expansion of Freight Corridors
Significant progress has been made in the development of Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs), with around 2,800 km completed so far. Currently, about 480 freight trains operate daily on these corridors, improving efficiency and reducing congestion on passenger routes.
Additionally, locomotive production has increased to around 12,000 units, while wagon induction has crossed the 2 lakh mark, further strengthening freight capacity.
Transparent Monitoring and Future Outlook
The government has introduced improved transparency and institutional monitoring of railway projects, involving agencies like NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Finance.
With a dual focus on affordability and modernisation, Indian Railways aims to balance passenger needs with infrastructure growth, ensuring safer, faster, and more accessible travel across the country.
For More Info Stay Tuned: https://skylinktimes.in
