Indian Railways is planning to increase the speed of nearly 350 to 400 Mail, Express, and Superfast trains. The Railway Board has given in-principle approval to raise the maximum speed from 110 km/h to 130 km/h. This move will reduce travel time for millions of passengers across the country.
Which trains will get the speed boost and how will it help
The plan mainly focuses on long-distance trains that use LHB coaches. These coaches are designed to run safely up to 160 km/h. This upgrade will bring the speed of general express trains closer to premium trains like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Vande Bharat Express. Railway officials estimate that 40 to 45 crore passengers will benefit from this change every year through better punctuality and faster journeys.
What infrastructure changes are being made for higher speed
To support the 130 km/h speed, the government is upgrading the tracks and signaling systems. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated in the Rajya Sabha that 23,713 kilometers of track were already upgraded by February 2026. The process includes strengthening the tracks, installing electronic interlocking, and using high-speed signaling systems to ensure safety.
| Feature | Current Status/Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Trains | 350-400 Mail/Express trains |
| Current Max Speed | 110 km/h |
| Proposed Max Speed | 130 km/h |
| Coach Requirement | LHB Coaches |
| Track Upgraded (Feb 2026) | 23,713 km |
| Annual Beneficiaries | 40-45 crore passengers |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many trains will see a speed increase?
Around 350 to 400 Mail, Express, and Superfast trains will have their speed increased from 110 km/h to 130 km/h.
Which coaches are required for this speed increase?
The upgrade will focus on trains equipped with LHB coaches, as they are safely capable of operating at speeds up to 160 km/h.