The Indian Railways plans to produce around 10,000 non-air-conditioned coaches by the end of the 2025-26 financial year. Officials state that about 53% of these coaches will be general coaches to meet the needs of regular passengers. This decision comes as part of the annual coach production program, which takes into account the varying demands for rail services due to seasonal changes and increasing passenger numbers.
An official, who chose to remain anonymous, said, “The production of coaches is normally based on the requirement.” In this fiscal year, 4,485 coaches will be built, including 2,605 general coaches, 1,470 non-AC sleeper coaches, 323 seating-cum-luggage rake coaches, 32 high-capacity parcel vans, and 55 pantry cars.
Responding to Changing Demands
The Railways’ Coach Production Programme is designed to adapt to the changing needs of passengers. This ensures that the production of coaches is flexible and meets the dynamic demand.
Minister’s Surprise Visit
In related news, Union Minister of State for Railways, Ravneet Singh Bittu, made a surprise visit to the Railway Board canteen. The visit during lunchtime allowed the Minister to review the facilities and services. He was accompanied by the Secretary of the Railway Board and other senior officials, who interacted with the canteen manager and staff to understand their operations better.
