Ahmedabad: Indian Railways has announced a comprehensive plan to double the originating train capacity of major cities by 2030, with Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Surat among 48 cities nationwide targeted for expansion.

According to the Ministry of Railways, existing infrastructure must be augmented to meet growing passenger demand. The plan includes:

• Augmenting the current terminals with additional platforms, stabling lines, pit lines, and adequate shunting facilities.

• Identifying and developing new terminals in and around urban areas.

• Setting up maintenance facilities, including mega coaching complexes.

• Increasing sectional capacity through signaling upgrades, multitracking, and other traffic facility improvements.

The project will consider not only major terminals but also surrounding stations to balance capacity. Both suburban and non-suburban traffic requirements will be addressed, with works categorized as immediate, short-term, and long-term, accompanied by clear timelines and outcomes.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, “We’re expanding coaching terminals, enhancing sectional and operational capacities in various cities to meet rising passenger demand and reduce congestion. This move will upgrade our railway network and improve nationwide connectivity.”

A comprehensive plan for the 48 major cities is under consideration: