Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Indian Railways now operates 11,740 daily train services, up from 11,283 before Covid-19. Mail and Express services have risen to 2,238 from 1,768. The timetable has been rationalised with IIT-Bombay’s support to enhance safety, speed, and punctuality, offering passengers more reliable travel options nationwide.
Indian Railways has achieved a new milestone by increasing its daily average train services to 11,740 (as of November 2025), surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared the update in Parliament, highlighting the government’s commitment to expanding connectivity and improving passenger experience.
The increase is particularly notable in Mail and Express services, which now stand at 2,238 daily trains, compared to 1,768 before Covid-19. This expansion reflects the Railways’ efforts to meet rising demand while ensuring efficiency and safety.
To support this growth, Indian Railways undertook a scientific rationalisation of its timetable, with assistance from IIT-Bombay. The exercise involved streamlining train services and stoppages, creating maintenance corridor blocks, and enhancing punctuality. Since November 2021, Express trains have been operated under this rationalised schedule, ensuring smoother operations and better passenger convenience.
Major Takeaways
Daily Services Expanded: Indian Railways now runs 11,740 trains daily, up from 11,283 pre-Covid.
Mail & Express Growth: Services increased to 2,238 daily, compared to 1,768 earlier.
Scientific Timetable: Rationalisation done with IIT-Bombay to improve efficiency.
Passenger Safety: Maintenance corridor blocks created to enhance safety.
Improved Punctuality: Rationalised schedules ensure faster and more reliable services.
Notable Updates
Post-Covid Recovery: Railways has not only restored but expanded services beyond pre-pandemic levels.
Focus on Speed: Rationalisation aims to reduce delays and improve train speeds.
Nationwide Impact: Expansion benefits passengers across India, offering more travel options.
Conclusion
The expansion of daily train services to 11,740 marks a significant achievement for Indian Railways, reflecting its focus on growth, safety, and passenger convenience. With more Mail and Express trains and a rationalised timetable, passengers can expect faster, safer, and more reliable journeys across the country.
Sources: The Hans India, News Nation, Orissa Post.