Indian Railways has intensified its focus on track modernisation and safety, announcing plans to renew 7,900 track kilometres in FY 2026–27, as part of its sustained investment strategy to enhance operational reliability, safety, and train speeds across the national network.
The railways recorded significant progress in FY 2024–25, completing track renewal over 6,851 km, while over 7,500 km of renewal works are currently underway in FY 2025–26. The continued momentum underscores Indian Railways’ long-term commitment to strengthening critical rail infrastructure.
Turnout renewal—vital for smooth and safe train movements—has also seen notable improvements. During FY 2024–25, Indian Railways installed 7,161 Thick Web Switches and 1,704 Weldable CMS Crossings. In the current fiscal year, the provision has been scaled up to over 8,000 Thick Web Switches and more than 3,000 Weldable CMS Crossings.
Mechanised deep screening of ballast, essential for track stability and improved ride quality, has been carried out extensively. 7,442 km of deep screening was completed in FY 2024–25, with over 7,500 km currently in progress during FY 2025–26.
To support large-scale mechanised maintenance, Indian Railways has significantly expanded its infrastructure capacity by procuring over 1,100 track machines since 2014, improving productivity and execution speed across the network.
Safety enhancements have also been strengthened through extensive track fencing. Around 15,000 km of fencing has been installed to prevent cattle run-over and trespassing, particularly on high-speed corridors operating at 110 kmph and above.
These sustained efforts have delivered transformative results. The length of tracks capable of supporting speeds of 110 kmph and above has nearly tripled—from 31,445 km (about 40% of the network) in 2014 to 84,244 km (around 80%) at present—marking a major milestone in India’s rail modernisation journey.