What are the Railway Development Plans in BJP's Manifesto for 2024-2029?

New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): As the country gears up for a major electoral battle, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has made a significant announcement by unveiling its manifesto, which includes a comprehensive plan for the development of railways if it comes to power after the Lok Sabha polls. This marks a noteworthy shift as it is the first time a major political party in India has accorded such prominence to railway development in its manifesto, signaling a significant opportunity for all stakeholders involved in the railway sector.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP manifesto emphasizes the party's commitment to infrastructure development, with a special focus on the poor, youth, farmers, and women. Prime Minister Modi stressed the importance of a stable government with a full majority, particularly during uncertain global times.

Key Promises of BJP for Railways:

• Constructing New Tracks: The BJP has pledged to expand the railway network to increase capacity for both passenger and cargo transportation. The party aims to add 5000+ km of new tracks annually, continuing this pace of expansion over the coming years.

• Increasing Ticket Availability: A significant increase in passenger carrying capacity is promised by 2030, with the aim of reducing waiting lists significantly.

• Expansion of Kavach Train Protection System: The BJP plans to expand the manufacturing, design, and installation of Kavach Systems in a mission mode, similar to the electrification of the railway network.

• Building World-Class Stations: The party has initiated the redevelopment of over 1,300 railway stations to world-class standards and plans to extend this project to all major and medium-sized stations.

• Expanding Coverage of New Age Trains: If the BJP returns to power, it intends to further expand the network of new age trains.

• Vande Sleeper Trains: The promise includes the launch of Vande Sleeper trains.

• High-Frequency Trains: Expansion and launch of regional connectivity programs to other major cities are on the agenda.

• Expanding Metro Network: The BJP aims to expand the metro network in major urban centers, ensuring last-mile connectivity.

• Expanding Bullet Trains: Feasibility studies for Bullet Train Corridors in North, South, and East India are set to be initiated.

• Launch User-Friendly Super App: A Super App will be launched to provide all train-related services to users in a single, user-friendly application.

The BJP manifesto was launched in the presence of key party leaders, including PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and party President JP Nadda.

The BJP's manifesto outlines a comprehensive plan to modernize and expand India's railway network, with a clear focus on enhancing passenger and cargo transportation capacity. This commitment to infrastructure development underscores the party's vision for a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India), laying the groundwork for a more efficient and interconnected railway system in the country.