Indian Railways is prioritizing the expansion of facilities for passengers, with a specific focus on accommodating the economically weaker sections alongside others. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recent initiatives aimed at enhancing travel convenience:
Balanced Coach Allocation
The Railways is maintaining a ratio of 2:3 for non-AC coaches and 1:3 for AC coaches to cater to passengers across economic categories. This approach ensures a fair distribution of resources, making travel accessible to a broader demographic.
Special Manufacturing Program
To address the rising demand for general (non-AC) coaches, a special manufacturing program has been launched. Under this initiative:
- 1914 new coaches have been added so far this financial year.
- These include 384 EMU coaches (Electric Multiple Units) and 185 MEMU coaches (Mainline Electric Multiple Units), designed to offer convenience to unreserved category passengers.
- The effort is expected to benefit nearly 72 lakh passengers.
Western Railway’s Contribution
According to Shri Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, additional general category coaches are being introduced across rail zones to meet growing passenger needs.
- From July to December, Western Railway has added approximately 150 new general category coaches (GS) to 78 pairs of trains.
- Thousands of passengers benefit from these additions daily, enhancing capacity and reducing overcrowding.
Why This Matters
The move addresses the increasing demand for affordable and accessible rail travel, particularly among the economically weaker sections. By systematically augmenting coach capacity, Indian Railways ensures a smoother travel experience for millions, reinforcing its role as the lifeline of the nation.