The Union Cabinet has approved eight railway multitracking projects worth about ₹20,804 crore, covering key routes across nine states and adding nearly 1,196 kilometres to the existing Indian Railways network.

The projects are aimed at increasing rail capacity, reducing congestion, improving operational efficiency and strengthening passenger and freight connectivity. The approved works are scheduled to be completed by 2029-30. 

The approvals cover two groups of projects. Three projects with an estimated cost of ₹10,783 crore will add about 656 km across West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Another five projects, costing approximately ₹10,021 crore, will add around 540 km across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana. 

Major Rail Expansion Across MP and Chhattisgarh

The first set of projects includes the Kharagpur–Jharsuguda fourth line, Katni–Pendra Road fourth line and Bilaspur (Uslapur)–Pendra Road third line.

Together, these projects will cover 14 districts and strengthen some of the important railway corridors used for the movement of coal, cement, iron and steel and other freight commodities.

The Railway Ministry estimates that the additional capacity from these projects could support around 27 million tonnes per annum of additional freight traffic. It also expects the improved rail infrastructure to reduce logistics costs and contribute to lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions. 

For Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the Katni–Pendra Road fourth line and Bilaspur–Pendra Road third line are particularly significant because they add capacity to a heavily used east-central rail corridor.

Five More Projects in Southern India

The second package consists of five projects covering 17 districts in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana.

These include:

• Arakkonam–Renigunta third and fourth lines — 77 km

• Whitefield–Bangarapet third and fourth lines — 47 km

• Hosur–Omalur doubling — 147 km

• Salem–Karur–Dindigul doubling — 159 km

• Secunderabad (Ghatkesar)–Kazipet multitracking — 110 km

The projects will increase the existing railway network by about 540 km and are expected to improve connectivity to approximately 2,121 villages with a combined population of around 52 lakh. 

The Railway Ministry expects these projects to generate additional freight capacity of about 47 million tonnes per annum. Several important tourism destinations, including Tirupati, Kodaikanal Hills, Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary and destinations around Telangana, are also expected to benefit from improved rail connectivity. 

Seven High-Density Corridors to Get Four Lines

The government is also pursuing a larger capacity-expansion programme for India's busiest railway corridors.

According to the announcement, all seven identified high-density corridors are being targeted for four-lining, covering roughly 11,000 km.

The corridors include Delhi–Howrah, Mumbai–Howrah, Delhi–Mumbai, Delhi–Guwahati, Delhi–Chennai, Howrah–Chennai and Mumbai–Chennai.

Around 2,000 km of four-lining work has already been completed, according to the government.

The focus is not limited to passenger trains. Expanding these corridors is also intended to create additional paths for freight trains, allowing more efficient movement of coal, steel, cement, food grains, petroleum products, containers and other goods.

Projects Linked to PM Gati Shakti

The newly approved projects are being planned under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which focuses on coordinated infrastructure development and multimodal connectivity.

The government says the approach will help integrate rail connectivity with other modes of transport while improving the movement of people, goods and services. 

The projects across Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal are expected to strengthen freight movement in an important industrial and mineral belt. The southern projects, meanwhile, will improve connectivity between major industrial centres, cities and tourism destinations.

Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Update

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also provided an update on the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train project, saying the service is expected to begin next year.

The initial operational section is planned between Surat and Vapi, covering about 100 km, as construction progresses on the larger high-speed rail project.

The project is being developed as India's first high-speed passenger rail corridor and is expected to introduce a new travel option between major cities along the Mumbai–Ahmedabad route.

Government Pushes Capacity Overhaul

The latest approvals form part of a broader effort to expand railway capacity rather than rely solely on new routes.

By adding third and fourth lines and doubling existing single or double-line sections, the Railways aims to allow more trains to operate on congested corridors while reducing conflicts between passenger and freight services.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the Cabinet decisions would strengthen connectivity, improve passenger movement and create additional freight capacity. He also highlighted the expected benefits for states including Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha and West Bengal, including tourism and lower logistics costs.

With the eight projects together adding nearly 1,196 km of railway capacity, the latest approvals represent another major step in the government's ongoing multitracking programme. 

Drinking water facilities at railway stations under the South East Central Railway (SECR) zone have come under scrutiny after a CAG assessment found significant deficiencies in water quality and other passenger amenities. The Comptroller and Auditor General examined selected facilities at 512 stations across 16 railway zones. In the assessment of drinking water arrangements, SECR recorded a deficiency score of 93.35, the highest among the zones covered, indicating more shortcomings against the prescribed standards.

The report found that water samples at some railway stations contained E. coli and total coliform bacteria. The presence of E. coli can indicate contamination from faecal matter or sewage and raises concerns about the safety of drinking water supplied to passengers. The assessment also looked at chlorine levels and other aspects of the water supply system. At some locations, chlorine levels were reportedly found to be either below or above the prescribed limits.

The findings are important for passengers using stations across the Bilaspur railway zone, particularly because drinking water is one of the basic facilities expected to be available at railway stations. Contaminated water can increase the risk of water-borne illnesses, including diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal infections. What exactly caused the contamination at individual stations would depend on the local water source, storage and distribution arrangements, and the report’s findings point to the need for closer monitoring.

CAG prepared deficiency scores to compare the condition of passenger facilities across the 16 railway zones. A lower score indicates fewer deficiencies, while a higher score reflects greater gaps against the prescribed standards. South Central Railway recorded the lowest deficiency score for drinking water at 17.53, while SECR’s score of 93.35 placed it at the bottom of this particular assessment.

The overall picture, however, was not negative for SECR. The zone performed relatively well in facilities for passengers with disabilities and ranked second among the 16 zones in that category. Its deficiency score for facilities for persons with disabilities was 20.97. The assessment therefore showed a mixed picture, with some passenger facilities performing better while drinking water and other basic amenities remained areas of concern.

The CAG assessment covered selected stations and examined drinking water availability, quality and related arrangements along with minimum passenger facilities. The exercise was aimed at checking whether the facilities being provided at railway stations matched the prescribed standards. The findings have put renewed focus on the condition of basic passenger services at stations in the Bilaspur zone.

Following the report, railway authorities have said that steps are being planned to improve the drinking water arrangements. SECR Chief Public Relations Officer Sheikh Sami Ur Rahman said the Railway Minister was reviewing the CAG findings and that an action plan was being prepared for improving water facilities at stations in the Bilaspur zone.

The proposed measures include installing additional water coolers and tank-to-tap water filtration systems. Authorities have also indicated that cleaning and maintenance of water tanks will be carried out regularly, along with continued testing of water quality. The effectiveness of these measures will depend on how consistently they are implemented across stations.

For passengers, the immediate concern remains access to safe drinking water. The CAG findings have highlighted gaps that railway authorities will now have to address, particularly at stations where water quality did not meet the required standards.

The decision comes ahead of the peak pilgrimage period, when lakhs of Shiva devotees travel through Bihar and Jharkhand to participate in the month-long religious fair. Railway authorities have been making special operational arrangements to handle the seasonal rush, with the restoration of the South Bihar Express expected to ease pressure on regular services.

The train's return is likely to benefit passengers travelling from Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring regions who rely on the route for onward connectivity towards eastern India during the Shravan month. The service had remained unavailable earlier, forcing many passengers to depend on alternative trains that witnessed heavy demand.

Every year, Shravani Mela witnesses a sharp rise in passenger movement as devotees collect holy water from Sultanganj before undertaking the Kanwar Yatra to Deoghar. The growing number of pilgrims often results in packed trains, prompting Indian Railways to introduce additional services and restore important routes wherever operationally feasible.

Officials have indicated that railway operations during the festival period are being closely monitored to ensure smoother travel. Along with restoring key trains, several Shravani Mela special services are also being scheduled across different railway zones to manage the expected influx of passengers. These trains are intended to reduce overcrowding and improve connectivity for devotees travelling to Baba Baidyanath Dham.

The restoration of the South Bihar Express is expected to reduce dependence on connecting trains, particularly for passengers travelling long distances. Railway officials have advised travellers to check updated schedules and reservation availability before planning their journey, as festival traffic generally leads to high occupancy across major routes.

Indian Railways has been strengthening preparations for the Shravan season through additional train services, crowd management measures and passenger facilities at important stations. Government agencies have also initiated special arrangements in areas witnessing heavy pilgrim movement to ensure safe and orderly travel during the fair.

The Shravani Fair remains one of eastern India's largest religious gatherings, attracting devotees from across the country every year. Rail transport plays a crucial role in handling this seasonal movement, making the restoration of major passenger services particularly significant.

With the South Bihar Express returning to operation, pilgrims are expected to have a more convenient travel option during one of the busiest periods on the railway network. Authorities are expected to continue reviewing passenger demand throughout the festival and introduce further operational measures if required.

Further railway advisories regarding timings, stoppages and any additional festival-related services are expected in the coming days as preparations for the Shravani Fair gather momentum.

The temporary suspension of several local passenger and MEMU services was announced earlier to facilitate non-interlocking work and the commissioning of an automatic signalling system on the third railway line between Bhatapara and Hathband in Raipur Division. The project is part of SECR's broader network modernisation programme aimed at improving operational efficiency and increasing route capacity.

With the completion of the scheduled engineering work, railway authorities confirmed that the cancelled MEMU services have resumed operation from Wednesday, bringing normalcy back to one of the busiest suburban rail corridors in Chhattisgarh.

The restoration comes as a significant relief for thousands of daily commuters, office-goers, students and small traders who rely on MEMU services connecting Bilaspur, Raipur, Bhatapara, Hathband and nearby stations. The temporary cancellations had affected regular travel plans across the region over the past two days.

Railway officials said the signalling upgrade forms an important part of the ongoing third-line expansion project. The introduction of automatic signalling is expected to improve train movement, reduce congestion and enhance operational safety by allowing better management of traffic on the section.

During the maintenance period, SECR had cancelled multiple MEMU and passenger trains while advising passengers to verify train schedules before travelling. The cancellations were planned in advance to enable uninterrupted execution of the technical work required for commissioning the upgraded signalling system.

Officials have stated that while passengers experienced short-term inconvenience, the completed infrastructure upgrade is expected to benefit railway operations in the long run. The modern signalling arrangement will help increase line capacity and support smoother movement of both passenger and freight trains on the route.

The Bhatapara–Hathband section plays an important role within the Bilaspur–Raipur rail network, serving thousands of commuters every day while also handling substantial freight traffic. Railway authorities have been implementing phased upgrades across the corridor to accommodate rising traffic demand and improve punctuality.

With services now restored, passengers have been advised to continue checking official railway updates for any operational changes related to future infrastructure works. Railway officials also appealed for public cooperation during such projects, noting that temporary disruptions are often necessary to strengthen railway infrastructure and improve safety standards.

The successful completion of the signalling work marks another milestone in SECR's ongoing network modernisation efforts, with normal train operations now resuming across the affected section.

Rail passengers in Chhattisgarh are set to face travel disruptions as the South East Central Railway (SECR) has cancelled eight MEMU and passenger trains on July 22 and 23 due to infrastructure work on the Bhatapara–Hathbandh section in the Raipur Division.

The services have been suspended to facilitate non-interlocking (NI) work required for the commissioning of an automatic signalling system on the third railway line. Railway officials said the work is part of an ongoing infrastructure development programme aimed at improving operational efficiency and increasing line capacity.

Third-Line Project Behind the Disruption

According to SECR, the third-line project between Bhatapara and Hathbandh is progressing rapidly, and the current phase involves installing and commissioning automatic signalling equipment. During the non-interlocking work, train operations on the affected section will remain restricted, leading to temporary cancellations.

Railway authorities said the infrastructure upgrade is expected to improve train movement and reduce congestion on one of the region's busiest rail corridors once completed.

Trains Cancelled on July 22

The following trains will remain cancelled on 22 July:

• Train No. 68728 – Raipur–Bilaspur MEMU Passenger
• Train No. 68734 – Bilaspur–Gevra Road MEMU Passenger
• Train No. 68733 – Gevra Road–Bilaspur MEMU Passenger
• Train No. 68719 – Bilaspur–Raipur MEMU Passenger
• Train No. 58203 – Korba–Raipur Passenger
• Train No. 58204 – Raipur–Korba Passenger
• Train No. 68746 – Raipur–Gevra Road MEMU Passenger

Train Cancelled on July 23

• Train No. 68745 – Korba–Raipur MEMU Passenger

Jharsuguda–Gondia MEMU to Be Short-Terminated

Railway authorities have also announced changes to the 68862/68861 Jharsuguda–Gondia–Jharsuguda MEMU service.

On 22 July, the train will terminate at Bilaspur and begin its return journey from the same station. As a result, services between Bilaspur and Gondia in both directions will remain cancelled for the day.

Passengers Advised to Check Train Status

With several local and regional passenger services affected, commuters travelling between Bilaspur, Raipur, Korba, Gevra Road and Gondia have been advised to verify the latest train status before starting their journey.

Railway officials have said the temporary inconvenience is necessary to complete the signalling upgrade, which is expected to improve safety, operational efficiency and capacity on the route in the long run.

Rail passengers travelling between Bhopal and Lucknow may soon get a faster and more comfortable travel option, as the Indian Railways is planning to introduce a Sleeper Vande Bharat Express connecting the capitals of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

According to railway sources, the proposal submitted by the Bhopal Railway Division has received approval, paving the way for one of the country's upcoming long-distance Sleeper Vande Bharat services. Once operational, the train is expected to significantly improve rail connectivity between the two state capitals.

Travel Time May Reduce by Four Hours

At present, trains operating between Bhopal and Lucknow take nearly 12 hours to complete the journey.

The proposed Sleeper Vande Bharat is expected to cut the travel time to around eight hours, saving passengers nearly four hours. The final schedule, however, will be confirmed only after the Railway Ministry releases the official timetable.

The reduced travel duration is expected to benefit thousands of passengers travelling regularly for work, education, business, healthcare, and government-related assignments.

Comfortable Overnight Journey

Unlike most existing Vande Bharat Express trains, which operate with chair car coaches on short and medium-distance routes, the proposed Bhopal–Lucknow service will feature sleeper coaches designed for long-distance travel.

The sleeper configuration is expected to offer passengers a more comfortable overnight journey while retaining the speed and modern amenities associated with the Vande Bharat platform.

Railways has been developing the Sleeper Vande Bharat model specifically for routes where passengers spend several hours on board.

Railway Plans 20-Coach Train

The proposed service is also expected to operate with 20 coaches, an increase from the initial plan of 16 coaches.

The expansion reflects the anticipated passenger demand between the two capitals. A larger train would allow more passengers to travel on a single trip while helping accommodate higher demand during holidays and festive seasons.

Route and Stoppages Await Official Confirmation

The complete route, station halts, and operational schedule have not yet been officially announced.

Several major railway junctions lie between Bhopal and Lucknow, making the selection of stoppages an important decision for the Railways.

Officials are expected to balance faster journey times with passenger demand while deciding the final list of stations.

Official Notification Expected in August

According to railway sources, an official notification regarding the service is likely to be issued in August.

The notification is expected to include:

• Train number
• Operating days
• Departure and arrival timings
• Route and stoppages
• Fare structure
• Booking schedule

Until then, passengers will have to wait for the official confirmation of operational details.

Growing Demand for Faster Connectivity

Bhopal and Lucknow witness substantial passenger movement throughout the year.

As administrative capitals of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh respectively, both cities experience heavy travel by government officials, students, business professionals, healthcare seekers, and tourists.

A faster premium rail service is expected to make same-day or overnight travel significantly more convenient.

Part of India's Expanding Sleeper Vande Bharat Network

Indian Railways has been steadily expanding the Vande Bharat network across the country.

While the first phase primarily focused on daytime chair-car services, the next phase emphasises Sleeper Vande Bharat trains for longer intercity routes.

The Bhopal–Lucknow corridor is considered well suited for this upgraded service due to its passenger volume and travel distance.

Strengthening Madhya Pradesh's Rail Network

Madhya Pradesh already operates several Vande Bharat services connecting cities such as Bhopal, Indore, Rewa, and Khajuraho with major destinations.

The proposed Lucknow service is expected to further strengthen Bhopal's role as an important hub in India's expanding semi-high-speed rail network.

Fare Details Yet to Be Announced

Ticket prices for the Sleeper Vande Bharat have not yet been disclosed.

As a premium train service, fares are expected to differ from those of conventional Mail and Express trains and may vary depending on the coach category.

Railway authorities are expected to announce the fare structure along with ticket booking dates after the official notification is released.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the train at Jind during his visit to Haryana, describing the project as a significant step towards cleaner and environmentally sustainable public transport. The hydrogen-powered train has been designed and developed using indigenous technology as part of the government's push to reduce carbon emissions and expand green mobility solutions across the railway network.

Unlike conventional diesel-powered trains, the new train generates electricity onboard through hydrogen fuel cells. The system combines hydrogen with oxygen to produce electrical energy, with water vapour and heat emerging as the only by-products of the process. The technology eliminates direct carbon emissions during operation and is considered a cleaner alternative for rail transport on non-electrified or partially electrified routes.

The train will operate on the 89-kilometre Jind-Sonipat route under Northern Railway. It has been introduced as a pilot project to evaluate the performance of hydrogen-powered rail transport under Indian operating conditions. Officials believe the experience gained from this service will help determine the future expansion of hydrogen-based railway technology in the country.

The train consists of two hydrogen-powered driving cars and eight passenger coaches. Together, the propulsion system generates around 2,400 kW of power, making it one of the world's most powerful hydrogen-powered passenger trainsets in its category. Indian Railways has also established a dedicated hydrogen production, storage and refuelling facility at Jind to support regular operations.

Multiple safety mechanisms have been incorporated into the train, including hydrogen leak detection, fire and smoke sensors, heat monitoring systems and automated safety controls. Railway officials have stated that the train underwent extensive testing before receiving approval for passenger operations.

The hydrogen train forms part of Indian Railways' broader strategy to adopt cleaner technologies while improving energy efficiency. With Indian Railways already having electrified most of its broad-gauge network, hydrogen-powered trains are expected to serve routes where conventional electrification may not be practical or economically viable.

Experts believe the project could open new opportunities for the adoption of alternative fuels in the transport sector. If the pilot proves successful, similar hydrogen-powered trains may be introduced on additional routes in the coming years as India continues to pursue its long-term sustainability and net-zero objectives.

With the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) scheduled for June 21, authorities in Madhya Pradesh have intensified preparations to ensure smooth travel and crowd management for thousands of candidates appearing for the examination. The Bhopal Division of West Central Railway has announced a series of measures aimed at facilitating the movement of students and their families across key examination centers in the region.

The examination will be conducted in Bhopal, Guna, Vidisha, Narmadapuram (Hoshangabad), and Ashoknagar. Officials expect the highest number of candidates in Bhopal, where 13,774 students are likely to appear for the test. Other districts are expected to host 1,839 candidates in Guna, 1,709 in Vidisha, 1,283 in Narmadapuram, and 865 in Ashoknagar.

Given the anticipated increase in passenger traffic, railway authorities have placed special emphasis on crowd control, passenger guidance, and train punctuality.

Special Arrangements at Railway Stations

According to Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM) Saurabh Kataria, comprehensive arrangements have been made at all major stations under the Bhopal Railway Division to ensure a hassle-free experience for examinees.

Special crowd management measures will be implemented at station premises, entry and exit gates, and platforms. Additional personnel from the Commercial Department, Railway Protection Force (RPF), and Operations Department will be deployed to manage passenger movement and maintain order.

Railway officials have also activated dedicated announcement systems to provide real-time information and guidance to passengers. These announcements will help students navigate stations efficiently and reach their destinations on time.

Focus on Passenger Assistance

Authorities have planned queue management systems and barricading arrangements to regulate passenger flow at busy locations. Special assistance desks and guidance facilities will also be available to help candidates traveling to examination centers.

Officials stated that railway staff would be stationed at key points to provide directions and support to students unfamiliar with local transit arrangements.

The division has instructed all concerned departments to remain alert and prepared to respond to any unexpected surge in passenger traffic or operational challenges during the examination period.

Emphasis on Train Punctuality

Maintaining train schedules is another key priority for railway authorities. Special monitoring will be carried out at stations connected to examination centers to ensure smooth operations throughout the day.

Officials have been directed to take all necessary measures to keep train services running on time, particularly those trains that pass through or halt at stations serving major NEET examination centers.

The objective is to minimize travel disruptions and ensure that candidates reach their examination venues without delay.

Large Candidate Turnout Expected

NEET is one of India's most competitive entrance examinations, serving as the gateway for admission to undergraduate medical courses across the country. Every year, the examination witnesses large-scale movement of students and guardians, placing additional pressure on transportation infrastructure.

With more than 19,000 candidates expected across the five districts under the Bhopal Division's jurisdiction, railway authorities are treating the event as a major operational exercise requiring coordinated planning and execution.

As the examination date approaches, officials have appealed to students and their families to plan their journeys in advance, arrive at stations early, and follow railway instructions to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Bhopal Metro is preparing for a major operational upgrade that is expected to improve train speed, frequency, and overall passenger convenience. The signalling system on the priority corridor between Subhash Nagar and AIIMS has been completed, paving the way for metro services to begin operating on both tracks from July, subject to final approval from safety authorities.

Officials associated with the project said the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) has been invited to conduct the final inspection. The inspection team is expected to visit the corridor in the coming days. Once the required safety certification is granted, metro authorities plan to introduce a revised operating schedule and increase the number of train services.

The development comes as Bhopal Metro has faced criticism in recent months over its limited operating hours, low frequency, and comparatively slow service. At present, trains are running on only one track, resulting in longer waiting times for passengers.

Signalling Upgrade to Boost Capacity

Industry experts describe the signalling system as one of the most critical components of any metro network. It controls train movement, regulates speed, maintains safe distances between trains, and enables efficient multi-track operations.

Until now, the absence of a fully operational signalling system meant that Bhopal Metro had to run trains on a single track. As a result, trains travelling in both directions were using the same line, limiting operational efficiency and reducing service frequency.

With the signalling work now complete, metro services will be able to utilize both tracks simultaneously. This is expected to significantly improve operational flexibility and reduce passenger waiting times.

Technology Similar to Delhi Metro

According to officials, the system being introduced in Bhopal Metro is based on modern signalling technology used in leading urban transit networks, including the Delhi Metro. The technology allows better train management, shorter headways between services, and enhanced safety standards.

The newly completed signalling infrastructure covers the approximately 7-kilometre priority corridor between Subhash Nagar and AIIMS. It forms part of a larger signalling package designed for metro networks in both Bhopal and Indore.

Transportation experts believe the upgrade will allow metro authorities to make better use of existing infrastructure while improving reliability and passenger experience.

Benefits for Commuters

The introduction of the new system is expected to bring several improvements for daily commuters. Train frequency is likely to increase substantially, reducing the current waiting period between services. Metro authorities will also be able to schedule operations more efficiently during peak office hours.

Passengers are expected to benefit from faster journeys, more predictable schedules, and greater service availability throughout the day. Officials hope the improvements will encourage higher ridership and strengthen public confidence in the metro system.

South East Central Railway reverses June 7–19 cancellations after non-interlocking work at Champa station is deferred; passengers across MP, Maharashtra, Bihar, and Bengal get relief.

Sudden Reversal Brings Relief

Passengers travelling across some of India's busiest inter-state rail corridors got an unexpected reprieve on Monday after South East Central Railway (SECR), Bilaspur zone, announced that all 86 trains cancelled between June 7 and 19 would now run as per their original schedule. The decision came after the railway administration chose to postpone — until further orders — the fourth-line non-interlocking work at Champa station that had triggered the mass cancellations.

Of the 86 trains restored, 76 are express services and 10 are passenger trains operating under the Bilaspur division.

Why the Trains Were Cancelled

The original cancellations had been announced to facilitate non-interlocking work — a complex railway signalling and track-switching operation — for the fourth rail line project at Champa station in Chhattisgarh. Such work typically requires a complete shutdown of train movement through the affected section for days at a stretch. The June 7–19 window had been earmarked for the job, affecting dozens of services across the SECR network.

The ripple effect was significant. Passengers from West Bengal, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and several other states had begun scrambling for alternatives after the earlier cancellation announcement. The SECR corridor serves as a critical spine connecting major metros like Mumbai and Kolkata to central and eastern India.

Diverted Trains Return to Original Routes

Beyond the restored cancellations, the railway administration confirmed that several trains whose routes had been altered due to the planned work would also revert to their original paths. The diverted services include the Howrah–Pune Duronto Express, Pune–Howrah Duronto Express, CSMT–Howrah Duronto Express, Howrah–CSMT Duronto Express, LTT–Shalimar Gyaneshwari Express, Shalimar–LTT Gyaneshwari Express, Bhubaneswar–LTT Express, and LTT–Bhubaneswar Express. All these trains will now operate via their scheduled routes without any change.

Five Delayed Trains Back on Time

Five trains that had earlier been notified to run with a delay will now depart at their original timings. These include the 12129 Pune–Howrah Azad Hind Express, 12809 CSMT–Howrah Mail, 12070 Gondia–Raigarh Jan Shatabdi Express, the 18249/18251 Raipur–Korba Hasdeo Express, and the 18239 Korba–Itwari Shivnath Express. Passengers who had adjusted their travel plans in anticipation of the delays should double-check departure timings before heading to the station.

Passengers Advised to Verify Schedules

Despite the good news, railway authorities have urged travellers not to take the restored services for granted. Local authorities confirmed that conditions for the fourth-line work at Champa remain in place and a fresh date will likely be announced in due course. Passengers have been advised to check their train's current status on the official Indian Railways website or through the enquiry helpline — 139 — before travelling.

Large-Scale Project Still Pending

The postponement offers only temporary relief. The Champa fourth-line project is part of a broader capacity expansion drive by the railways in Chhattisgarh, and the non-interlocking work will need to be completed at some point. When the new date is finalised, a similar round of cancellations and route diversions is likely. For now, however, passengers across nearly a dozen states can plan their June travel without disruption.

The Barmer-Rishikesh Express, one of the oldest long-distance trains operated under North Western Railway, is facing severe passenger pressure as demand continues to outstrip capacity on the 48-year-old route. The train, which connects western Rajasthan to Uttarakhand, has emerged as the primary rail link for thousands of passengers from Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab, especially for religious travel and long-distance journeys.

With no parallel service introduced on the route, the Barmer-Rishikesh Express is now operating under heavy strain, leaving passengers to contend with long waiting lists and overcrowded coaches.

Reservations Under Stress

According to current booking trends, reservations on the Barmer-Rishikesh Express remain full for nearly two months ahead. Railway booking data shows sleeper class waiting lists ranging between 120 and 180 on most dates between late April and June, while third AC waiting lists remain between 40 and 70.

The pressure is more severe in general coaches, where passengers often travel standing for long hours. Many are forced to sit near toilets or on coach entry steps due to a lack of space, highlighting the growing mismatch between demand and available capacity.

Three States Depend

The train serves as a crucial transport link for passengers from Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab, many of whom rely on it for pilgrimages to Haridwar and Rishikesh. It is widely used by devotees travelling for Ganga snan, temple visits and ritual ceremonies, including pind daan and asthi visarjan.

With no additional train introduced on the sector, the entire passenger load from these regions continues to fall on a single service. Railway users and local passenger groups say the route has remained underserved despite sustained demand over several years.

A 48-Year Legacy

The Barmer-Rishikesh Express began operations in 1978 and has remained one of the most significant long-distance trains for northern and western India. It was later operated as the Barmer-Haridwar-Kalka Link Express, with linked coaches for Chandigarh and Kalka.

The train used to split at Ambala, allowing passengers direct access to Chandigarh and onward connectivity. After the Kalka link was withdrawn following the Covid-19 period, the entire passenger flow was diverted to the Barmer-Rishikesh section, significantly increasing the load on the existing service.

Reserved Seats Affected

Passengers say overcrowding has now begun affecting even reserved classes. According to regular travellers, sleeper and AC coaches often become congested after the train enters Punjab, with unreserved passengers boarding despite confirmed reservations.

This has led to frequent complaints from passengers who, despite booking confirmed seats well in advance, struggle to access their berths. Railway users say the crowding has made reserved travel increasingly difficult and uncomfortable, particularly during the summer and festive rush.

Railway Cites Constraints

Railway officials have acknowledged the demand pressure but cited operational limitations. Bhupesh Yadav, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Bikaner division, said adding more coaches to the existing train is not feasible at present because the platform at Rishikesh can accommodate only 16 coaches.

He said a proposal would be sent to North Western Railway headquarters for introducing a new train between Bikaner and Haridwar to ease pressure on the route.

Demand For Relief

Passenger groups have renewed their demand for an additional train, arguing that a fresh service is the only practical solution to ease congestion on the Barmer-Rishikesh Express. Lakshman Sharma of the Citizen Struggle Committee for Rail, Suratgarh, said passengers are being forced to travel in extremely difficult conditions because of limited capacity and the absence of a second train. The demand is likely to gain traction as summer travel peaks and religious movement increases further.

Indian Railways Set for 8 Major Overhauls in 2026-27, Including First Hydrogen Train

From India's first hydrogen-powered train to stricter ticket refund rules, Indian Railways is rolling out sweeping upgrades this financial year that will reshape how millions travel across the country.

Indian Railways is gearing up for one of its most ambitious annual transformation drives, with the Ministry of Railways confirming eight landmark changes for the financial year 2026-27. The changes range from the commercial launch of the country's first hydrogen-powered train to a revised ticket cancellation policy taking effect April 15 — affecting hundreds of millions of passengers annually.

Refund Rules Tightened from April 15

Under the revised cancellation policy, passengers must now cancel tickets at least eight hours before a train's scheduled departure to qualify for any refund — double the earlier four-hour window. Those who cancel between 8 and 24 hours before departure will receive 50% of the fare. Tickets cancelled within the 8-hour window will attract no refund, according to official communication from the Railways Ministry.

Cancel from Any Station Counter

In what is being seen as a significant passenger-friendly step, counter-purchased tickets can now be cancelled at any railway station across the country — not just the originating or last booking station. This change is expected to benefit passengers travelling in remote areas or those who have already reached an intermediate city.

Boarding Station Changes Go Digital

Passengers will soon be able to modify their boarding station digitally up to 30 minutes before a train departs from its originating point. Previously, such changes were only permitted before the charting process began. The move directly addresses a persistent pain point where passengers miss trains at their scheduled stop but have no recourse to board at the next station on a confirmed ticket.

An in-train class upgrade feature is also being introduced under the same digital overhaul — allowing passengers to shift from Sleeper to an AC class up to 30 minutes before departure, subject to seat availability.

Hydrogen Train Trial Completed Successfully

India's first hydrogen train — described by officials as the world's longest and most powerful of its kind — has successfully completed trials between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. The Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) supervised the trials of the 10-coach, 2400kW rake, which emits only water vapour during operation. The train is projected to cost around ₹80 crore and is expected to enter commercial service during the current financial year.

12 Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains This Year

Railways Minister confirmed that 12 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains will be deployed for long-distance routes in 2026-27. Two of these have already begun operations on the Howrah-Kamakhya corridor. Each rake carries 16 coaches — 11 in Third AC, four in Second AC, and one First AC — designed to cover distances of 1,000 to 1,500 kilometres.

Indo-Russian joint venture Kinet Railway Solutions is expected to deliver its first prototype by June 2026 under a 120-train contract, while Titagarh Rail Systems, in partnership with BHEL, is building 80 rakes. As a reference point, the Third AC fare between Guwahati and Howrah has been set at ₹2,300 — well below air travel costs on the same route, which typically range between ₹6,000 and ₹10,000, as per ministerial statements.

75 New Passenger Holding Areas Planned

Following the success of dedicated waiting facilities at New Delhi Railway Station, the Ministry of Railways has cleared the construction of Passenger Amenity Centres — commonly referred to as holding areas — at 75 additional major stations. These are earmarked for completion by March 2027 and aim to reduce overcrowding on platforms during peak travel periods.

Electrification Nears 100%

The Indian Railways broad gauge electrification project is at the final stretch, with 99.2% of the network already electrified across 25 states and union territories. The ministry has set a target to achieve complete electrification by the end of this financial year — a milestone that would significantly cut diesel consumption and reduce the network's carbon footprint.

Taken together, these changes reflect a coordinated push by Indian Railways to modernise passenger experience, reduce environmental impact, and improve operational efficiency. Whether the hydrogen train launch meets its 2026-27 target or the new refund policy results in fewer last-minute cancellations will be closely watched by commuters and industry observers across the country.