The Indian Railways announced on Tuesday that it will manufacture 10,000 non-air conditioned coaches over the next two fiscals to enhance facilities for common passengers. This initiative will increase the number of non-AC coaches by 22%.
For the year-ended March 2025, the plan includes 2,605 general coaches, 1,470 non-AC sleeper coaches, and 323 sitting-cum-luggage rake coaches, along with 32 high-capacity parcel vans and 55 pantry cars, according to a Northern Railway statement.
“Designed to improve passenger comfort, the breakup also includes general, sleeper, and SLR (seating-cum-luggage rakes) coaches for Amrit Bharat trains,” it said.
Similarly, the railways said that in fiscal 2026, 2,710 general coaches, 1,910 non-AC sleeper coaches, 514 SLR coaches, 200 high-capacity parcel vans, and 110 pantry cars will be manufactured.
“The Railways' focus is to ensure adequate and improved facilities for passengers travelling in non-AC coaches and enhance comfort and availability in response to varying passenger needs and seasonal fluctuations,” the statement said.
(With inputs from PTI)