Indian Railways is pioneering a transformative freight-cum-passenger train concept, aimed at enhancing revenue through time-sensitive parcel and small cargo shipments. This initiative aligns with the broader strategy of modernizing railway operations and diversifying income streams. By introducing these unique dual-purpose trains, Indian Railways is making its debut in the cargo liner segment, targeting the booming courier and e-commerce markets. Partnerships with India Post and key logistics players are being explored to further amplify the project’s impact.

Freight-Cum-Passenger Trains: The Concept

These innovative trains are designed with a double-decker structure:

• Lower Deck for Freight: Optimized for transporting parcels and small cargo efficiently.

• Upper Deck for Passengers: Ensures a comfortable travel experience similar to conventional passenger trains.

This dual-purpose design leverages existing railway dimensions, maximizing efficiency without necessitating significant infrastructure overhauls.

Development and Costs

The Rail Coach Factory in Kapurthala is spearheading the production of these trains:

• Prototype Development: Each coach is estimated to cost around ₹4 crore.

• Current Progress: Ten coaches have been manufactured, and a full train rake is in the final stages of assembly.

• Initial Deployment: Operations will commence on select routes identified based on cargo movement patterns and passenger demand.

Operational Challenges

While promising, the project presents certain challenges:

1. Timely Cargo Handling: Ensuring parcels are loaded and unloaded promptly to maintain passenger train schedules.

2. Scalability: Balancing cargo and passenger requirements efficiently on the same train for sustainable operations.

A former senior railway official highlighted potential logistical issues, particularly during peak times, which could impact operational efficiency. Insights gained from the pilot phase will be instrumental in addressing these challenges and fine-tuning the model.

Government Backing and Strategic Importance

The initiative received a detailed review by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) in late 2024. Encouraged by the PMO, the Ministry of Railways has prioritized this project, recognizing its transformative potential for India’s logistics landscape.

The Bigger Picture: Why Now?

Indian Railways is under increasing pressure to augment its freight capacity and revenue:

• Current Performance: Rail freight achieved a 5% growth in 2023-24, reaching 1,591 million tonnes.

• Future Goals: To meet ambitious freight targets, the railways must achieve a 10% compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) by 2030.

Freight-cum-passenger trains represent an innovative solution to these challenges, catering to India’s expanding logistics needs while enhancing the railways’ competitiveness in the sector.

What’s Next?

The success of the pilot deployment will determine the scalability of this model. If proven viable, these trains could:

• Significantly improve the railways’ role in the logistics ecosystem.

• Provide a sustainable, cost-effective solution for transporting passengers and goods.

By embracing this dual-purpose concept, Indian Railways is poised to revolutionize cargo logistics, setting new benchmarks for efficiency and sustainability in India’s transportation sector.