Indian Railways Reports All-Time High 9% Growth in Coach Production for FY 2024-25

Indian Railways has marked a significant achievement in the fiscal year 2024-25 by producing a record-breaking 7,134 passenger coaches. This figure represents a 9% increase from the 6,541 coaches manufactured in the previous financial year. The Ministry of Railways confirmed this milestone, highlighting the government's commitment to expanding and modernizing the country’s rail infrastructure.

Focus on Non-AC Coaches to Serve the Common Man

Out of the total coaches produced, a major share—4,601 coaches—were non-air-conditioned. This shows a strategic focus on catering to the everyday traveler and meeting the demand for affordable transportation options. Indian Railways continues to prioritize inclusive development, ensuring even the most remote regions of the country have access to modern and comfortable travel.

Manufacturing Units Drive Record Production

Three major coach production units have contributed to this growth:

• Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai

• Rail Coach Factory (RCF), Kapurthala

• Modern Coach Factory (MCF), Rae Bareli

Among them, ICF in Chennai emerged as the top performer, producing 3,007 coaches, up from 2,829 in 2023-24.
RCF in Kapurthala followed with 2,102 coaches, up from 1,901, while MCF in Rae Bareli delivered 2,025 coaches, compared to 1,684 the previous year.

Historical Comparison Highlights Growth

To understand the significance of the current production figures, it’s important to look at historical trends. From 2004 to 2014, Indian Railways produced fewer than 3,300 coaches annually. In contrast, between 2014 and 2024, production averaged 5,481 coaches per year—totaling 54,809 coaches during the decade.

This surge reflects not only increased demand but also strategic investments in domestic manufacturing and technology upgrades, driving the railways towards self-sufficiency and global competitiveness.

A Boost to the 'Make in India' Movement

The increased production directly contributes to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, promoting domestic capabilities and reducing dependence on imports. With a clear focus on modern, energy-efficient, and passenger-friendly coaches, India is strengthening its standing as a global player in railway manufacturing.

Advanced features, including better safety mechanisms, enhanced comfort, and design innovations, make these coaches more reliable and sustainable—key traits for a future-ready transport system.

Enhancing Public Transport and Connectivity

The rise in coach manufacturing also supports the government’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’, which aims to improve public services and bridge regional development gaps. Increased coach availability allows Indian Railways to expand its services to underserved regions, improving nationwide mobility and economic integration.

These coaches are also designed with features to enhance the travel experience, such as bio-toilets, GPS-based passenger information systems, and improved interior layouts for comfort and safety.

Paving the Way for the Future of Indian Railways

This achievement isn’t just a numbers game—it signals the beginning of a new chapter for Indian Railways. Coupled with other initiatives like full electrification, high-speed rail corridors, and station modernization, the rise in coach production is integral to transforming India’s railways into a state-of-the-art transport network.

With continued focus on innovation, capacity building, and sustainable development, Indian Railways is poised to meet the growing needs of passengers while contributing to national progress and economic resilience.