Passengers on Top, Cargo Below: Central Government Approves Double-Decker Trains
Indian Railways is set to embark on another innovative experiment by introducing double-decker trains designed to carry both passengers and cargo simultaneously. The Railway Ministry’s design for these trains, submitted last year, has received the central government’s approval. The design was developed by the Railway Research and Development Centre.
In this unique double-decker train, the lower deck will be utilized for cargo transportation, while the upper deck will accommodate passengers. This arrangement is expected to enhance the speed of cargo movement while reducing operational costs. Indian Railways believes these trains will significantly boost revenue through increased cargo transportation capacity.
Cost and Production Details
Each train will consist of 18 to 22 coaches, with each coach estimated to cost ₹4 crore. The manufacturing of these coaches will take place at the Kapurthala Coach Factory. Indian Railways aims to roll out these trains on the tracks by the end of this year.
Strategic Goals
In 2023-24, Indian Railways transported 1,591 million tonnes of cargo. By 2030, the target is to increase this figure to 3,000 million tonnes.
In this unique double-decker train, the lower deck will be utilized for cargo transportation, while the upper deck will accommodate passengers. This arrangement is expected to enhance the speed of cargo movement while reducing operational costs. Indian Railways believes these trains will significantly boost revenue through increased cargo transportation capacity.
Cost and Production Details
Each train will consist of 18 to 22 coaches, with each coach estimated to cost ₹4 crore. The manufacturing of these coaches will take place at the Kapurthala Coach Factory. Indian Railways aims to roll out these trains on the tracks by the end of this year.
Strategic Goals
In 2023-24, Indian Railways transported 1,591 million tonnes of cargo. By 2030, the target is to increase this figure to 3,000 million tonnes.