Indian Railways Maps Out 100-Day Strategy With Focus On Vande Bharat Sleeper, Bullet Train, Kashmir Rail Projects

Indian Railways is gearing up for an ambitious 100-day plan aimed at transforming the country's rail infrastructure under the new government's tenure.

The plan encompasses significant initiatives, including the introduction of sleeper variants of Vande Bharat trains, completion of crucial railway projects in Jammu and Kashmir, and advancing the procurement process for the bullet train project.

Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains For Enhanced Passenger Comfort

Indian Railways is finalising plans to roll out sleeper variants of Vande Bharat Express trains, catering to long-distance overnight journeys. These new trains, prepared by Chennai's Integral Coach Factory and BEML in Bengaluru, are expected to offer enhanced comfort to passengers on extended trips.

Currently, BEML is manufacturing 10 sleeper Vande Bharat trains for ICF and the design has been finalised by BEML in consultation with ICF.

The government has allocated a substantial budget of over Rs 1 lakh crore for rolling stock production, emphasising its commitment to modernising rail services, reports Times Of India.

Focus On Kashmir Railway Project And Bullet Train Procurement

A major highlight of the 100-day plan is the completion of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramula Rail Link, a vital project aimed at connecting Kashmir with the rest of India. With a budget of Rs 37,012 crore, the project is set to facilitate seamless train travel from Jammu to Srinagar, bolstering connectivity and accessibility in the region.

The 272-km-long railway line from Udhampur to Baramulla joining the Kashmir Valley with the Indian Railways network under Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail link (USBRL) project was sanctioned in 1994-95.

This project involves 38 tunnels (combined length of 119 km), the tunnel (T-49) has a length of 12.75 km and is country’s longest transportation tunnel.

Additionally, efforts to finalise the procurement plan for the Ahmedabad-Mumbai high-speed rail, India's first bullet train project, are underway. Backed by a Rs 40,625 crore loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency, this project holds immense significance in India's quest for high-speed rail connectivity.

The high-speed rail operating at 320 kmph will traverse along west India’s landscape, covering a 508.17 km distance between Mumbai and Ahmedabad in just about two hours.

Toward A Transformative Future

Indian Railways' ambitious 100-day plan underscores its commitment to ushering in a new era of rail transportation in the country.

By prioritising the introduction of Vande Bharat sleeper trains, expediting key railway projects, and advancing the bullet train initiative, the government aims to enhance passenger experience, bolster connectivity, and propel India's journey towards a modern, efficient, and sustainable rail network.

As the nation embarks on this transformative journey, Indian Railways remains steadfast in its resolve to realise the vision of a connected and prosperous India through strategic investments and innovative initiatives in the railway sector.