Indian Railways saw a significant increase in passenger earnings during FY24, exceeding 15% from the previous year. However, freight earnings grew at a slower pace of less than 5%. While the railway’s capital expenditure (capex) remains strong, execution needs to be expedited. Notable projects like the Kashmir rail connectivity...
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and the anti-collision technology KAVACH are facing delays. Despite positive developments in electrification and energy expenditure, challenges remain in rolling stock production, with delays in Vande Bharat train and locomotive production. The railway's dependence on imports for 'forged' wheel sets continues. Staff costs constitute a significant portion of earnings, highlighting the need for staff reductions in non-core areas. Further, train crews are reportedly stabilizing trains en route, due to slow speeds and infrastructure works. The article stresses the need for the Indian Railways to accelerate infrastructure augmentation, improve safety, and increase train speeds.