Breaking all previous benchmarks, Indian Railways has manufactured a record volume of general and non-AC coaches, signaling a new era of expanded capacity. This development is poised to transform the travel experience for budget-conscious passengers nationwide.
Leading the charge are production hubs like Rail Coach Factory at Kapurthala, which alone contributed nearly 40% of the total output. Advanced automation and skilled workforce have enabled this feat, slashing production timelines by 25%.
The move responds to escalating demand post-pandemic, where unreserved travel has rebounded stronger than ever. Data from the Railway Statistics shows a 15% year-on-year increase in general coach occupancy, necessitating this manufacturing blitz.
Key features in the new batch include anti-graffiti interiors, improved seating ergonomics, and bio-toilets as standard. Safety enhancements, such as automatic door controls and emergency communication systems, reflect lessons from recent audits.
Government investment in rail modernization, including the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, complements this production drive. Officials project that these coaches will add over 10 million seats annually to the network.
Stakeholders praise the initiative for its focus on equity—ensuring remote and rural routes get equal attention. Environmental considerations are woven in, with recyclable materials reducing the carbon footprint per coach.
As Indian Railways eyes Vande Bharat expansions, this record in basic coaches reaffirms its dual strategy: premium services alongside mass mobility. The nation’s rails are stronger, ready for tomorrow’s journeys.