New Delhi: Indian Railways has expanded train services and added coaches over the past five years to meet rising passenger demand across the network.
The Indian Railways passenger demand has grown steadily, especially on busy routes during peak seasons. To address this, authorities introduced new trains, extended routes and increased service frequency.
Between 2021-22 and February 2026, Railways introduced 1,024 trains and extended 907 services. It also increased the frequency of 168 trains and added 4,651 coaches.
Indian Railways passenger demand drives expansion
Officials said waiting lists are monitored regularly to assess travel demand. Based on this, additional services and capacity enhancements are planned.
To support affordable travel, Railways is manufacturing 17,000 non-AC coaches. At present, nearly 70% of the total coaches are non-AC, catering to general and sleeper class passengers.
In the last financial year alone, 1,250 general coaches were added to long-distance trains. Another 860 coaches were added in the current financial year up to February 2026.
Passenger numbers in unreserved categories have also increased significantly. The figures rose from 553 crore in 2022-23 to 651 crore in 2024-25.
Special trains and future focus
Railways has also increased special train operations during peak travel periods. These include festivals and vacation seasons.
Around 74,800 special train trips were operated between April 2025 and February 2026. This helped ease congestion and improve travel access.
The overall strategy focuses on balancing demand across peak and lean periods. Authorities aim to improve capacity, affordability and efficiency.
With continued investments and service expansion, Indian Railways aims to provide better connectivity and smoother travel experiences for passengers.
रेलवे गरीब और मध्यम वर्ग की सवारी है। पूरा फोकस गरीब से गरीब व्यक्ति को सुगम और सस्ते ट्रांसपोर्टेशन सर्विसेज देने का रहता है: माननीय रेल मंत्री @AshwiniVaishnaw जी pic.twitter.com/wKGWZTq6dy
— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) March 25, 2026
