In a noteworthy revelation, Indian Railways reported that a substantial 95.3% of the total 390.2 crore railway passengers from April to October 2023 opted for general and sleeper classes, with only 4.7% choosing AC coaches. This surge indicates a significant shift in travel preferences compared to the corresponding period last year.
During these seven months, a total of 390.2 crore passengers utilized railway services, marking an impressive 11.7% increase from the 349.1 crore passengers recorded in the same period of 2022. Out of this surge, 92.5% (38 crore passengers) favored non-AC classes, while 3.1 crore passengers opted for the comfort of air-conditioned coaches.
The breakdown of these figures underscores that 95.3% of passengers, constituting the total number for April-October 2023, chose general and sleeper classes, with the remaining 4.7% opting for AC classes.
Notably, the Railways has enhanced its operational capacity, currently running 562 more trains daily compared to the pre-COVID era. The increase includes a rise in both mail and express trains, which now stand at 2,122, up from 1,768 in the pre-COVID period. Additionally, suburban trains, connecting suburbs and cities, have also seen a boost in numbers from 5626 to 5774.
Recognizing the daily commuting needs within cities, Indian Railways has introduced 2,852 trains for daily commuters, a significant increase from the pre-COVID count of 2792. This proactive measure aligns with the substantial rise in the number of daily passengers.
These developments reflect the railways’ adaptability to evolving travel patterns and a commitment to enhancing passenger convenience.
