In a groundbreaking announcement, the Ministry of Railways has set forth an audacious goal of completely eliminating waiting lists within the next 4-5 years, signaling a paradigm shift in rail travel planning.
Paradigm Shift in Rail Planning
According to a report by news agency ANI, sources within the ministry have disclosed a comprehensive plan to address the surge in demand, particularly in general and sleeper-class coaches, with a notable shift in passenger distribution observed from April to October 2023.
During this period, non-AC coaches, including General and Sleeper classes, accounted for a staggering 95.3% of the total passengers carried, registering a significant increase of 38 crore passengers compared to the previous year. This shift underscores a growing preference for economical travel options.
In contrast, AC coaches accommodated 4.7% of the total passengers, marking a notable increase of 3.1 crore passengers compared to the previous year. This data reflects a changing dynamic in passenger preferences.
Indian Railways Meeting Escalating Demand
To address the escalating demand, Indian Railways has substantially expanded its services. A total of 562 additional trains are now operational daily across the IR network, encompassing various categories, ensuring a total of 10,748 trains run each day.
This proactive approach not only caters to the current surge in demand but also lays the foundation for a future where waiting lists are consigned to the past, promising a smoother and more efficient travel experience for millions of passengers.