The central government has allocated Rs 198.58 billion for the development of railways in Uttar Pradesh for the fiscal year 2025-26, an 18-fold increase compared to the period under the United Progressive Alliance (2009-2014). This significant investment reflects the government’s focus on modernising and expanding the railway infrastructure in the state.

Over the past decade, Uttar Pradesh has seen the construction of 5,200 km of railway tracks, surpassing the total rail network of countries like Switzerland and Belgium. This is part of a broader effort to enhance connectivity and improve the railway system's efficiency across the state. The government is also investing Rs 1.04 trillion into various projects, including double-line expansions, third-line projects, and upgrades to stations under the Amrit Bharat station scheme.

As part of its modernisation drive, the state is developing 157 stations as Amrit stations. Additionally, 14 Vande Bharat trains currently serve 20 districts in Uttar Pradesh, stopping at 25 stations. The Darbhanga-Anand Vihar Amrit Bharat Express, which operates in the state, halts at 10 stations.

In terms of safety, the Kavach safety system is being implemented on 4,800 km of Uttar Pradesh’s railway network, with full deployment expected within six years. The redevelopment of Gorakhpur Junction is also underway and is expected to be completed in the next three years. These efforts are part of a larger plan to improve the overall railway experience in the state, focusing on speed, safety, and modern infrastructure.

News source: Hindustan Times