Average Speed of Freight Trains is Only 25 km/h, Increasing It is of Prime Importance: Standing Committee Report
A recent report by the Standing Committee has highlighted a critical concern in the Indian railway sector – the slow average speed of freight trains. Currently, the average speed of freight trains in India stands at just 25 km/h, significantly lower than the global average. The report emphasizes that improving this speed is of paramount importance to enhance the efficiency of the freight sector, boost economic growth, and make Indian Railways more competitive in the global logistics market.
The Standing Committee, which oversees the performance of various government departments, has pointed out that the low speed of freight trains not only leads to delays but also affects the overall productivity of industries that rely on timely delivery of goods. With India being a major player in global trade, slow freight movement has an adverse impact on export and import timelines, pushing businesses to explore alternative, often more expensive, logistics solutions.
One of the key findings in the report is that the slow pace of freight trains is primarily due to outdated infrastructure, lack of dedicated freight corridors, and congestion on existing tracks. Freight trains often share tracks with passenger trains, leading to delays and slower movement. The report suggests that increasing the average speed would require significant investments in infrastructure upgrades, such as the construction of dedicated freight corridors, modern signaling systems, and improved railcar designs that can support faster movement.
The committee has recommended that the Indian government prioritize these infrastructure improvements to enhance the efficiency of the freight train network. It has also called for the implementation of technological innovations to streamline operations and reduce delays. Additionally, the report stresses the need for a coordinated effort between the Ministry of Railways, logistics companies, and other stakeholders to ensure that freight services are aligned with the demands of the modern economy.
Experts argue that boosting the speed of freight trains could result in numerous benefits, such as reduced transportation costs, improved supply chain efficiency, and a reduction in carbon emissions by promoting rail over road transport. Faster freight trains would also contribute to a more balanced transportation network, reducing pressure on highways and alleviating road congestion.
The Standing Committee’s report serves as a wake-up call for Indian Railways to focus on modernizing the freight sector, which plays a crucial role in the country’s economy. With the right investments in infrastructure and technology, India can improve its global standing as a logistics hub and bring down the cost of goods, benefiting both businesses and consumers alike.
The path to faster freight trains, however, will require significant time, effort, and capital. But with the proper focus on infrastructure upgrades, it is possible to achieve the ambitious goal of increasing freight train speeds, ultimately contributing to India’s long-term economic growth and competitiveness on the global stage.