Indian Railways Plans to Renew 7,900 km of Tracks in FY27

Indian Railways has announced an ambitious plan to renew approximately 7,900 kilometres of railway tracks in the financial year 2026–27 (FY27) as part of its ongoing infrastructure modernisation drive. The large-scale track renewal programme is aimed at enhancing passenger safety, operational reliability, and train speeds across some of the country’s busiest rail corridors.

According to officials, track renewal is a critical component of railway safety, as ageing tracks are more vulnerable to wear and tear, speed restrictions, and operational disruptions. By replacing old rails, sleepers, and ballast with modern, high-strength materials, Indian Railways seeks to reduce the risk of derailments and improve overall service quality. The proposed renewals will focus on high-density routes, major trunk lines, and sections with heavy freight and passenger traffic.

The initiative aligns with the Railways’ broader push towards modernisation and capacity augmentation, including the introduction of semi-high-speed trains, dedicated freight corridors, and advanced signalling systems. Improved track infrastructure is expected to allow trains to operate at higher speeds with greater stability, leading to shorter travel times and improved punctuality.

Officials noted that the renewal programme will also support higher axle loads, which is particularly important for freight operations. Stronger tracks will enable Indian Railways to carry heavier and longer freight trains, improving logistics efficiency and reducing transportation costs for industries. This is expected to contribute positively to economic growth by strengthening supply chains.

The planned renewals build on similar efforts undertaken in recent years, reflecting a sustained increase in capital expenditure on railway infrastructure. The government has consistently prioritised rail safety in budget allocations, recognising the network’s role as a backbone of India’s transport system.

Beyond safety and speed, the track renewal drive is also expected to generate employment opportunities in construction, manufacturing, and allied sectors. Experts believe that consistent investment in track infrastructure will be essential as passenger demand and freight volumes continue to rise.

Overall, the FY27 track renewal plan underscores Indian Railways’ commitment to creating a safer, faster, and more efficient rail network, capable of meeting the demands of a growing economy and an expanding population.