Union Budget: Railways likely to get higher allocation, focus on safety and new trains

The railway sector is expected to receive increased budgetary allocation in the upcoming Union Budget, with indications pointing to a 5–6 per cent rise in overall railway spending. The focus is likely to remain on infrastructure expansion, safety upgrades, and modernisation of passenger services.

Officials and experts anticipate higher investment in track upgradation, construction of new railway lines, and strengthening of safety mechanisms across the network. Passenger safety is expected to remain a priority, with increased funding for the expansion of Kavach 4.0, the indigenous automatic train protection system.

The budget may also include announcements related to new train services, including additional Vande Bharat Express trains, the long-awaited Vande Bharat sleeper variant, and new Amrit Bharat trains. Sources suggest that the government could announce around 50 new train services to improve connectivity across regions.

Modernisation of railway infrastructure, including the manufacturing of new coaches and locomotives, is also expected to feature prominently. There is speculation that the government may announce new dedicated railway corridors to boost freight and passenger efficiency.

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Passenger-centric measures could also be part of the budget. There is growing expectation that concessions for senior citizens may be reintroduced, with possible 40 to 50 per cent fare discounts on premium trains such as Rajdhani and Shatabdi Express services.

Overall, the railway budget is expected to underline the government’s commitment to safety, capacity expansion, and improved travel experience, while supporting long-term infrastructure growth.