SRINAGAR: The Indian government has allocated a record Rs 2,65,200 crore for Indian Railways’ capital expenditure in the 2024-25 financial year.
A PIB statement reads that the Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) stands at Rs 2,52,200 crore, marking a substantial investment in the country’s railway infrastructure. By Jan 5, Rs 1,92,446 crore of this allocation has already been utilised, reflecting the government’s commitment to modernising the Indian Railways network.
For rolling stock, a critical area for the comfort and safety of commuters, the allocation was Rs 50,903 crore. As of January 5, 2025, Rs 40,367 crore has been spent, constituting 79 percent of the total budget for rolling stock. Similarly, in safety-related works, Rs 28,281 crore has been invested out of the Rs 34,412 crore allocated, accounting for 82 Percent of the safety budget.
Indian Railways is central to the country’s transport infrastructure, ferrying around 2.3 crore passengers daily across the nation at affordable rates. The government has prioritised the transformation of the sector, with significant capital expenditure aimed at building world-class infrastructure that will serve generations to come. The focus on creating “future-ready” railways ties directly into the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
With 76 percent of the budget spent in the first nine months, Indian Railways is on track to meet its goals. Key initiatives include 136 Vande Bharat trains, 97 percent electrification of broad gauge, new lines, track doubling, and safety improvements.
“These investments are already making a tangible difference, with improved travel times and safety. As Vande Bharat sleeper trains are undergoing speed testing and safety certification, long-distance travellers are soon set to experience world-class travel on India’s railways. This transformation marks a new era for Indian Railways, and it would not have been possible without the government’s foresight and the mission mode execution of these modernisation projects,” the statement reads.
In the first four days of 2025 alone, Indian Railways has already spent Rs 1,198 crore on capital expenditure. With nearly three months remaining in the fiscal year, Indian Railways is well on track to meet and possibly exceed its target for the current budget. This capital expenditure will ensure that India’s railway system continues to evolve in line with the country’s aspirations for the future.
