Infrastructure
V Bhagya Subhashini
Apr 09, 2024, 03:40 PM | Updated 03:39 PM IST
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Indian Railways, one of the largest railway networks in the world, is poised for a significant overhaul following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in India.
This transformative initiative, a 100-day plan, represents a concerted effort by the government to revitalise and modernise the railway infrastructure, with a strong focus on enhancing the overall passenger experience.
At the forefront of this ambitious agenda is the introduction of 24-hour ticket refund scheme.
This initiative seeks to streamline the refund process for passengers, replacing the existing cumbersome three-day procedure with a more efficient and passenger-friendly system. The move is expected to significantly improve customer satisfaction and ease of travel.
In addition to the ticket refund scheme, Indian Railways is set to unveil a comprehensive "super app" tailored to meet the diverse needs of passengers.
This innovative digital platform will serve as a one-stop solution for various railway-related services, including ticket booking, train tracking, and other essential functionalities.
By consolidating these services into a single app, Indian Railways aims to simplify the travel experience and enhance convenience for passengers nationwide, reports Economic Times.
Furthermore, the imminent completion of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramula Rail Link project marks a significant milestone in enhancing regional connectivity and accessibility.
Once operational, this rail link will facilitate seamless travel between key destinations in Jammu and Kashmir, thereby stimulating economic growth and fostering greater integration within the region.
Moreover, Indian Railways is set to revolutionise train travel with the introduction of sleeper versions of Vande Bharat trains. These high-speed trains, renowned for their cutting-edge technology and superior comfort, will now offer sleeper accommodations, catering to the diverse needs of passengers seeking overnight journeys.
Another landmark development on the horizon is the inauguration of India's first vertical lift railway bridge, which will connect the mainland with Rameswaram.
This engineering marvel promises to enhance connectivity to the historic island town and revive train services that were halted due to safety concerns surrounding the existing bridge.
Additionally, efforts to expedite the Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train project underscore the government's commitment to advancing high-speed rail infrastructure in the country.
With a focus on operationalising a significant stretch of the bullet train route by April 2029, Indian Railways aims to usher in a new era of rapid and efficient intercity travel.
Overall, these initiatives represent a transformative leap forward for Indian Railways, signalling a renewed emphasis on innovation, efficiency, and passenger-centric services.
V Bhagya Subhashini is a staff writer at Swarajya. She tracks infrastructure developments.