New Delhi: Indian Railways has made significant progress in modernising its track infrastructure and enhancing safety standards, driven by sustained investment and focused execution over the last eleven years. These efforts have resulted in safer, faster, and more reliable train operations across the country, strengthening the backbone of India’s transportation network.
Massive Track Renewal Achieved and Accelerated
During the financial year 2024–25, Indian Railways completed track renewal over 6,851 track kilometres, marking a major milestone in asset maintenance and safety enhancement.
The momentum continues in the current year, with more than 7,500 track kilometres of track renewal work underway in 2025–26. Looking ahead, track renewal covering 7,900 track kilometres is planned for 2026–27, underscoring the Railways’ continued focus on infrastructure reliability and long-term safety.
Turnout Renewal Strengthens Operational Efficiency
Significant progress has also been achieved in turnout renewal, a critical component for smooth and safe train movement, especially at junctions and crossings.
In 2024–25, Indian Railways provided –
- 7,161 Thick Web Switches
- 1,704 Weldable CMS Crossings
In 2025–26, the Railways is providing –
- Over 8,000 Thick Web Switches
- More than 3,000 Weldable CMS Crossings
These upgrades improve durability, reduce maintenance needs, and enhance operational safety.
Deep Screening of Ballast Enhances Track Stability
Mechanised deep screening of ballast, essential for maintaining track stability and ride quality, has been carried out consistently.
- 7,442 track kilometres were deep screened in 2024–25
- Over 7,500 track kilometres of deep screening work is underway in 2025–26
This process plays a crucial role in extending track life and ensuring smooth and stable train operations.
Expansion of Track Machine Fleet Boosts Productivity
To support large-scale mechanised maintenance, Indian Railways has significantly expanded its track machine fleet. Since 2014, more than 1,100 track machines have been procured.
This expansion has enabled faster, safer, and more efficient maintenance, reducing manual intervention and increasing productivity across the network.
Safety Fencing Prioritised on High-Speed Sections
Safety fencing along railway tracks has been taken up on priority to minimise cattle run-over incidents and trespassing, especially on high-speed corridors.
So far, about 15,000 kilometres of fencing have been provided. This has significantly enhanced safety on sections where trains operate at speeds exceeding 110 kmph.
High-Speed-Capable Track Length Nearly Doubles
As a result of these sustained infrastructure upgrades, Indian Railways has achieved a major transformation in track capability.
- In 2014, only 31,445 kilometres (around 40% of the network) permitted speeds of 110 kmph and above.
- At present, this has increased to 84,244 kilometres, covering nearly 80% of the national rail network.
This dramatic expansion has enabled faster, more efficient, and more reliable train operations, benefiting passengers and freight movement alike.
Safety Initiatives
Through consistent investment, mechanisation, and focused execution, Indian Railways has significantly strengthened track safety and performance. The rapid expansion of high-speed-capable tracks, combined with large-scale renewal and safety initiatives, reflects a long-term commitment to building a modern, resilient, and passenger-centric railway network.
