The Budget allocation for railways has gone up marginally to nearly Rs 2.6 lakh crore for 2025-26, marked by a significant rise in the outlay for safety related works. With earnings estimated to cross Rs 3 lakh crore in the next fiscal, nearly 8% more than FY25, railways will log net earnings for three years in a row.As per estimates, net earnings of the national transporter are estimated to be more than double at Rs 3,041 crore in FY26.According to Budget documents, the capital support for railways would remain unchanged at around Rs 2.5 lakh crore. Railways’ operating ratio – amount spent to earn every Rs 100 – remains between 98-98.5 despite no fare hikes and Rs 58,000 crore in fare subsidies.Interacting with mediapersons, railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said in the Budget estimate, govt has taken into account projects such as manufacturing 17,500 general coaches, 200 Vande Bharat (sleeper and chair car) and 100 Amrit Bharat trains, among others. “New projects worth Rs 4.6 lakh crore have been factored in in the Budget which will be completed in the next 4-5 years. These are related to laying of new lines, doubling, quadrupling, new constructions, station redevelopment, flyover, under-passes among others,” he said.The minister said the new Namo Bharat trains, which can operate at 130 kmph, will connect many more short-distance cities.
Railways safety sped up, though cash flow slows
