Indian Railways Plans to Double Train Handling Capacity in 48 Major Cities by 2030

Jaipur.In view of the continuously and rapidly increasing number of rail passengers across the country, Indian Railways has prepared a comprehensive and long-term plan to enhance the handling capacity of coaching trains originating from major cities. The objective of this ambitious plan is to double the originating capacity of coaching trains in 48 major cities by the year 2030, ensuring that future passenger demand can be met efficiently.

Considering the sharp growth in travel demand, Indian Railways has emphasized that within the next five years, the capacity to operate new trains from major cities must be significantly increased. To achieve this, existing infrastructure will be expanded and upgraded in line with future requirements. While the ultimate goal is to double capacity by 2030, short-term and medium-term measures will be implemented to ensure that the benefits of capacity enhancement are realized at the earliest, especially at busy stations.

Key works planned under this initiative include:

Upgrading existing terminals with additional platforms, stabling lines, pit lines, and adequate shunting facilities

Identification and development of new terminals in and around urban areas

Expansion of maintenance facilities, including Mega Coaching Complexes

Increasing sectional capacity through traffic facility works, signaling upgrades, and multi-tracking to manage rising train density

A detailed plan covering all 48 identified cities will be submitted to the Planning Directorate, outlining approved, proposed, and planned works aimed at achieving the target of doubling train handling capacity within the stipulated timeline.

Comprehensive Plans for Jaipur and Jodhpur

As per the directives of the Railway Board, detailed and integrated capacity enhancement plans are being prepared for Jaipur and Jodhpur stations to double their coaching train handling capacity in a time-bound manner.

In Jaipur, the suburban station Khatipura has already been developed as a terminal station. Expansion of inspection and maintenance facilities is underway, including the construction of a Coach Care Complex at a cost of approximately ₹205 crore. This complex will cater to the maintenance of various types of rakes such as Vande Bharat, LHB, and DEMU, all at a single location. The development of Khatipura as a satellite terminal is expected to reduce congestion at Jaipur Junction, improve punctuality, and create opportunities for operating trains on new routes.

Additionally, a proposal has been made to develop Bhatto Ki Gali, near Jaipur, as a Mega Coaching Terminal. The first phase of this project involves an estimated investment of ₹800 crore, which includes the development of pit lines, washing lines, stabling lines, and sick lines to facilitate maintenance of Vande Bharat and other train rakes. This project will significantly ease operational pressure on Jaipur station and expand rail transport facilities in line with the city’s growth.

For Jodhpur, future-oriented plans are being implemented to ensure smooth rail operations and improved passenger amenities. At Bhagat Ki Kothi station, a Maintenance Cum Workshop Depot is under construction at a cost of ₹167 crore, with advanced facilities for maintenance of Vande Bharat sleeper trains under a technology partnership model. In addition, a Mega Coaching Terminal has been proposed at Bhagat Ki Kothi, for which a detailed project report of approximately ₹500 crore has been prepared. This includes extensive augmentation of maintenance infrastructure to enable servicing of a larger number of trains and enhance rail connectivity in the region.

Phased Implementation with Early Benefits

The entire plan will be implemented in three phases, with 2030 set as the target year for full capacity doubling. However, Indian Railways aims to progressively enhance capacity over the next five years, allowing passengers to experience immediate improvements. All works will be categorized into immediate, short-term, and long-term phases to ensure effective execution.

This initiative represents a significant step toward making Indian Railways more capable, efficient, and reliable, while proactively addressing future passenger needs and supporting sustainable urban transport growth.