India’s extensive rail network, ranked as Asia’s second-largest and the world’s fourth-largest, plays a pivotal role in the nation’s progress. With over 22,000 trains, 24 million daily passengers, and 200 million tonnes of freight, Indian Railways stands as the cornerstone of the country’s economy, propelling it to new heights.
Over the years, the government’s progressive policies have spurred the modernization of the rail system. Notably, initiatives like encouraging Public-Private Partnerships and permitting 100% FDI in the railway sector have led to cutting-edge manufacturing facilities, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Skill India’ campaigns.
The introduction of indigenous semi-high-speed trainsets, exemplified by the Vande Bharat Express, marked a significant milestone in India’s rail journey. This train not only transformed rail travel in the country but also showcased India’s capability to plan, design, and manufacture world-class trainsets independently.
Furthermore, the collaboration between Alstom and Indian Railways in building high-speed freight train engines at the Madhepura facility in Bihar, a flagship ‘Make in India’ project, has achieved nearly 90% indigenization. This not only boosts India’s manufacturing capabilities but also positions the nation on the global map for skilled workforce and innovation.
The metro revolution, another facet of India’s rail transformation, aligns with the Smart City mission, making urban areas more habitable for the growing population. India Is poised to become the second-largest metro system globally, emphasizing the reliability, affordability, and congestion-reducing capabilities of metro rail networks.
As the country looks towards a sustainable future, high-speed regional train services like RAPIDX are on the horizon, reflecting the government’s commitment to faster, safer, and more sustainable transportation.
Railways, being one of the most sustainable means of mass transit, are integral to India’s goals of combating climate change. The investments made today in railways not only contribute to sustainability but also drive socio-economic growth.In essence, the railways are not just connecting destinations; they are paving the way for India’s economic empowerment and self-sufficiency. Trains, in their journey across the nation, are indeed taking India to new horizons.