Indian Railways Sets 2030 Target to Double Train Capacity in 48 Major Cities

Indian Railways has unveiled an ambitious infrastructure expansion plan aimed at doubling the originating train capacity in 48 major cities across the country by 2030. The move comes in response to rising passenger demand, rapid urbanization and mounting congestion at major railway terminals. Officials say the initiative is critical to ensuring that India’s rail network remains capable of supporting economic growth and the mobility needs of millions of travelers in the coming decade.

Indian Railways. Image Source : PTI/Indian Railways | India TV News

Why the Expansion Has Become Necessary

Over the years, railway stations in large metropolitan areas and state capitals have struggled to handle increasing traffic. Limited platform availability, insufficient stabling lines and outdated maintenance facilities have restricted the number of trains that can originate from busy hubs. According to the Railways, simply adding more trains without expanding supporting infrastructure is no longer viable, making capacity enhancement an urgent priority rather than a long-term aspiration.

Infrastructure Upgrades at the Core of the Plan

The capacity-doubling strategy focuses on strengthening physical and operational infrastructure rather than just increasing train frequency. Major terminals will be upgraded with additional platforms, longer pit lines and enhanced stabling arrangements to allow more trains to be prepared simultaneously. Alongside this, Indian Railways plans to develop new satellite terminals and coaching depots around congested city centres to distribute traffic more evenly and reduce pressure on single stations.

Equally important are improvements beyond station limits. Railways has emphasized that capacity planning will also cover nearby stations and connecting sections so that bottlenecks outside terminals do not undermine expansion efforts within them.

Phased Roadmap Leading to 2030

To ensure steady progress, the project will be implemented in phases, including immediate, short-term and long-term actions. This phased approach allows passengers to benefit from incremental improvements well before the final 2030 deadline. Railway zones have been asked to submit detailed city-specific plans outlining both sanctioned and proposed works, ensuring the expansion remains time-bound and coordinated.

Cities Across India to Benefit

The plan spans 48 major urban centres, covering metro cities, state capitals and key commercial and pilgrimage hubs. Cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad are among those expected to see significant capacity upgrades. Several tier-2 and emerging cities have also been included, reflecting the Railways’ intent to balance regional development and strengthen nationwide connectivity rather than focusing solely on metros.

Alignment With India’s Long-Term Rail Vision

This initiative aligns closely with the National Rail Plan 2030, which seeks to modernize India’s railway system through capacity enhancement, modern signaling, improved station infrastructure and better passenger experience. By expanding origination capacity at major hubs, Indian Railways aims to complement broader goals such as decongesting high-density corridors and improving punctuality across the network.

What It Means for Passengers

Once implemented, the expansion is expected to translate into more train services, reduced waiting lists, improved punctuality and smoother passenger movement at busy stations. For daily commuters and long-distance travelers alike, the plan promises better access to rail travel and a more reliable experience in the years ahead.

The MGMM Outlook

Indian Railways’ plan to double originating train capacity in 48 major cities by 2030 reflects a long-overdue recognition of the pressure India’s urban rail infrastructure is facing. Rapid urbanisation, rising passenger volumes and chronic congestion at major terminals have made incremental fixes ineffective. By focusing on expanding platforms, stabling lines, pit lines and maintenance facilities, along with developing satellite terminals and coaching depots, the Railways is addressing structural constraints that have limited capacity for years. Importantly, the emphasis on upgrading nearby stations and connecting sections acknowledges that congestion is not confined to station limits but is a network-wide challenge.

If implemented in a time-bound and coordinated manner, this initiative has the potential to significantly improve passenger experience across metros, state capitals and emerging cities alike. More originating capacity should translate into additional train services, better punctuality and reduced overcrowding, while also supporting economic activity and regional connectivity. Aligned with the National Rail Plan 2030, the strategy signals a shift from short-term operational adjustments to long-term infrastructure-led solutions, positioning the rail network to meet the mobility needs of India’s growing urban population in the decade ahead.

(Sources: News18, India TV News, Business Standard