Indian Railways track renewal: The Ministry of Railways has set a target to renew tracks spanning 7,900 track km in FY 2026–27. According to the national transporter, sustained investment and focused execution over the last few years have led to significant progress in strengthening track infrastructure and safety standards.
Indian Railways track upgradation
In a release, the national transporter said that it carried out track renewal over 6,851 track kilometres during the fiscal year 2024-25. “In the current financial year 2025–26, more than 7,500 track kilometres of track renewal work is underway,” it said.
The ministry said substantial progress has been achieved in turnout renewal, which is critical for smooth train operations. “In 2024–25, 7,161 Thick Web Switches and 1,704 Weldable CMS Crossings were provided. In 2025–26, over 8,000 Thick Web Switches and more than 3,000 Weldable CMS Crossings are being provided.
Mechanised deep screening of ballast, essential for maintaining track stability and improving ride quality, has been carried out consistently. During 2024–25, 7,442 track kilometres of deep screening was completed, while over 7,500 track kilometres of deep screening work is being undertaken in 2025–26,” the railways said.
Fencing of railway tracks
The national transporter has taken up fencing along railway tracks on a priority to minimize cattle run-over incidents and trespassing. “About 15,000 kilometres of fencing have been provided so far, leading to improved safety on sections where trains operate at speeds exceeding 110 kmph,” it said.
Railways targets renewal of 7,900 track km in FY27
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With the national transporter planning to operate faster trains across the network, track renewal has become a crucial step in this direction. The track renewal works are undertaken as and when stretch of track becomes due for renewal on the basis of criteria laid down in Indian Railway Permanent Way Manual on age/condition basis.
If any stretch of track is not renewed in time due to various reasons, suitable speed restrictions, if required, are imposed to ensure safe running of trains. The track renewals involve replacement of existing rails or sleepers, separately or together with new or second hand serviceable material.
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