Infrastructure Development: Indian Railways’ Plan for Enhanced Passenger Experience

In India's big web of transportation, Indian Railways is like an important string, going through different parts of the country and linking its people together. With a rich history spanning over 160 years, Indian Railways has been the lifeline of the country, transporting millions of passengers daily. Indian Railways is going through a transformative journey that focuses on enhancing the passenger experience via comprehensive infrastructure development.

In this era of rapid technological evolution and increased expectations, Indian Railways recognises the need to modernise its infrastructure to meet passengers' expectations. The aim is to create a seamless and enjoyable travel experience that caters to the diverse needs of a population on the move. This blog would explore the initiatives undertaken by Indian Railways to improve the overall passenger experience.

Elevating Passenger Experience: Indian Railways unveils groundbreaking infrastructure initiatives and launches new trains

Budget Allocation for Indian Railways: In the budget for 2023-24, Indian Railways secured a historic budgetary allocation of US$ 29 billion (Rs. 2.41 lakh crores), underscoring the government's commitment to prioritise infrastructure in its development agenda. The revised estimates for the fiscal year 2023-24 were recorded at US$ 29.24 billion (Rs. 2.43 lakh crores).

Finance Minister Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman increased the Indian Railways budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 by 5.8% to US$ 30.57 billion (2.54 lakh crores). Indian Railway's commitment to continuous improvement reflects its dedication to providing efficient and accessible transportation services nationwide.

Focus on Sustainability: Electric locomotives enable cost savings, capacity expansion and eco-friendly transportation. Therefore, Indian Railways is advancing towards 100% electrification of broad-gauge tracks, achieving 6,577 route kilometres in 2023 and covering 93.83% of the total network. Furthermore, Indian Railways reaffirmed its environmental commitment through a renewed MoU with the Confederation of Indian Industry, aiming for ‘net zero carbon emission’ by 2030. Energy conservation measures, including insulated-gate bipolar transistor propulsion and LED lighting, demonstrate its dedication to sustainability.

Induction of Semi-High-Speed Vande Bharat Trains: The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) has independently developed semi-high-speed self-propelled trains known as Vande Bharat Express. These trains feature quick acceleration, reduced travel time, maximum speed of 160 kmph, GPS-based passenger information, automatic sliding doors, retractable footsteps, zero discharge vacuum bio-toilets, CCTV cameras and global standard contemporary features. As of October 2023, there were 68 operational Vande Bharat trains. In the interim budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, there is a plan to upgrade 40,000 regular rail bogies to meet Vande Bharat standards, aiming to improve safety, convenience, and comfort for passengers.

Introduction of Vistadome Coaches: Vistadome coaches, featuring panoramic views through wider windows and transparent roof sections, offer passengers scenic enjoyment. It also provides modern amenities such as observation lounges, electrically controlled opalescence glass windows, aesthetically designed interiors, ergonomic reclining seats, GPS-based public address systems, automatic sliding doors, FRP modular toilets, fire detection alarms and CCTV systems.

Introduction of Tejas Rajdhani Trains: Ultra-modern Tejas trains have been introduced with the Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches over Indian Railways. These ultra-modern trains have distinguished features such as automatic entry doors, passenger announcement and information system, fire and smoke detection systems, CCTV cameras and enhanced lavatory facilities featuring vacuum-assisted flushing with bio-toilets.

AC Economy Coaches: Indian Railways introduced a new variant, the AC Economy coach, offering enhanced amenities and increased passenger capacity at affordable prices, with the aim of replacing normal sleeper class coaches. The large-scale proliferation of technologically superior LHB coaches replaces conventional ICF coaches for improved riding, aesthetics, and safety. The production of ICF coaches ceased from 2018 to 2019, and phased replacement is underway.

New Amrit Bharat Trains: Indian Railways launched two Amrit Bharat trains in December 2023. The LHB coaches, crafted to enhance train speed, represent the latest generation of passenger coaches within Indian Railways. LHB push-pull trains offer safer, lighter, more comfortable, and jerk-free journeys. It enhanced passenger facilities, including attractive seating, improved luggage racks, mobile charging points, LED lights, CCTV, and public information systems.

One Station, One Product (OSOP) Outlets: A network of 1,250 OSOP outlets is operational at 1,129 stations, aligning with the 'Vocal for Local' vision. This initiative fosters a market for indigenous products, generating supplementary income for marginalised segments of society.

Bharat Gaurav Trains: Indian Railways introduced theme-based Tourist Circuit trains, starting with the Bharat Gaurav Train ‘Shirdi Yatra’. Covering 2,880 km on 26 circuits, these trains showcase India's cultural heritage and historical sites, serving 72,583 passengers across 156 trips as of December 2023.

Improved North-Eastern Connectivity: Rail projects thrive in the Northeast, connecting all states except Sikkim. Rail connectivity to four states (Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Mizoram) was provided after 2014. Northeast India’s first semi-high-speed train was launched on May 29, 2023 (connecting Guwahati and New Jalpaiguri).

Aastha Special Train to Ayodhya: Indian Railways has inaugurated the Aastha Specials, establishing connectivity to 66 locations across the country for pilgrims intending to visit Ayodhya, following the inauguration of the Ram Temple. The operations commenced on January 22, coinciding with the consecration ceremony. According to the official circular, 66 train sets, each comprising 22 coaches, were deployed initially, with the flexibility to add more as required.

High-Speed Rail Projects: High-speed rail projects in India, such as the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route, signify a transformative shift towards advanced technology and swift connectivity. These initiatives promise reduced travel times, increased efficiency, and elevated city connectivity, indicating India's commitment to innovation, sustainability and enhanced passenger experience.

Connectivity and Network Expansion: The initiative is focused on regional integration and extends rail lines to underserved areas, fostering economic development, social cohesion, and equitable resource distribution. This comprehensive railway grid reflects India's dedication to national progress and integration.

Indian Railways has improved its services in moving trains by incorporating advancements such as onboard Wi-Fi, gourmet catering, safety technologies, entertainment systems, smart ticketing, luxury classes, eco-friendly practices, and real-time information updates.

Introduction of new coaches over the years

Indian Railways is strategically proliferating technologically advanced LHB coaches after ceasing the production of ICF coaches in 2018. The phased replacement of ICF with LHB coaches is ongoing and LHB production is increasing steadily.

The self-propelled Train 18 aims to reduce travel time by at least 20%, surpassing conventional loco-drawn trains due to enhanced acceleration and deceleration. It offers world-class amenities, including Wi-Fi, infotainment, GPS-based information, and luxurious interiors, to elevate travel experience.

The production of LHB and self-propelled coaches over the years is depicted below:

Source: Coach production, Ministry of Railways

Digital transformations

Station Development: Indian Railways is prioritising passenger experience, investing significantly in modernising stations with facilities such as upgraded waiting areas with enhanced amenities, digital technologies to aid in navigation, and advanced security measures to ensure safety, aligning with global standards and enhancing the overall transit experience. Over 12,000 train coaches now feature digital display boards, presenting diverse information to passengers.

Easy Bookings: Digital solutions have revolutionised Indian Railways ticketing, providing user-friendly platforms and apps such as IRCTC. Streamlining reservations, these tools offer real-time information, schedules, and secure digital payments, improving customer convenience and overall railway efficiency for a seamless travel experience.

Digital Onboarding: Automated fare collection systems have streamlined passenger onboarding. Paperless travelling has gained popularity with Indian Railways, which offers convenience such as digital tickets, mobile check-in, quick verification, and eco-friendly practices for hassle-free journeys.

Challenges and solutions

Technical Challenges: The successful integration of digitalisation in railways demands advanced technical infrastructure with capability to manage the substantial volume of data produced by the railway system.

In 2018, the Ministry of Railways inaugurated the National Rail and Transportation Institute (NRTI), the country's inaugural university specialising in transportation. Operating as a deemed university, NRTI aims to cultivate a pool of skilled professionals for the rail and broader transportation industries. This institution is designed to attract and nurture fresh talent, offering comprehensive education in service operations, technology, data analytics and other relevant fields. Its main goal is to empower individuals with the necessary skills to effectively meet the evolving needs of the dynamic transport sector.

IoT and Big Data: The railway sector generates massive data, and it needs to ensure that the data collected is secure and can be analysed to derive insights that can improve the efficiency and safety of the railway system.

Indian Railways employs big data analytics for predictive maintenance, boosting operational efficiency. The system uses sensor data from trains and tracks to forecast maintenance needs, preventing breakdowns. The organisation optimises freight operations through data analysis, reducing costs and boosting revenues. Big data also improves the passenger experience by analysing preferences and feedback, while a revenue management system optimises pricing strategies based on market trends and demand, thus maximising overall revenues.

Security and Cybersecurity: It is imperative for the railway sector to ensure that the digital solutions deployed are secure and safeguarded against cyber threats. The sector must invest in cybersecurity measures to protect data and infrastructure from cyberattacks.

In recent years, the Indian government has prioritised railway safety with initiatives such as Rail Cloud and Rail Saathi. These integrated platforms streamline passenger services, including ticketing, inquiries, onboard services, and meal orders, leveraging advanced software for real-time train monitoring and performance analysis, which helps to keep passengers safe.

Different Projects Need Different Requirements: The railway sector needs to ensure that the digital solutions implemented are tailored to the project's specific needs. Various projects come with unique requirements, underscoring the sector's need to make sure that the digital solutions deployed align with these specific needs.

Conducting comprehensive project assessments helps to identify specific digitalisation needs. Digital solutions should be customised based on project requirements. Collaboration among project managers, IT experts and stakeholders must be promoted in order to ensure alignment with diverse project goals.

The road ahead

Indian Railways consistently elevates its practices by integrating cutting-edge technologies in line with global standards. Through electrification, modern services and digital innovations, Indian Railways embraces a forward-looking approach. Despite challenges, the sector effectively addresses issues with institutions such as NRTI and harnesses IoT and big data for operational excellence, ensuring a future marked by efficiency and sustainability. Envisioning an enriched passenger experience, Indian Railways plans the widespread adoption of high-speed, self-propelled trains and enhanced amenities. In a major stride, Indian Railways plans to introduce 60 new Vande Bharat Express trains in 2024. The overarching goal is continuously enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, demonstrating a positive trajectory in evolving practices and processes.