RailYatri's mid-year data reveals punctuality dip amid Kumbh Mela surge, long-term gains intact

Time of India

21 hours ago

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RailYatri's H1 2025 train performance report highlights a modest reversal in punctuality gains, with average delays rising slightly to 36.63 minutes, up from 35.75 minutes in 2024—a 2.45 per cent increase. However, performance remains improved compared to 2023, when the national average stood at 37.91 minutes, indicating that overall momentum toward better service has largely been sustained.The rise in delays is largely attributed to the surge in travel volumes during the Kumbh Mela, which placed exceptional pressure on major rail routes in the first half of the year. Despite this, the median delay figure remains largely steady, rising only marginally from 18.16 minutes to 18.58 minutes.At the state level, Rajasthan recorded the most significant improvement, with a 23.61 per cent drop in average delays to 29.74 minutes. The state also saw its median delay improve to 13 minutes. In contrast, Chhattisgarh—which had been a top performer in 2024—saw delays rise by 24.56 per cent , with average wait times increasing to 74.99 minutes.Among train categories, Rajdhani Express services posted a 17.06 per cent improvement in punctuality, bringing average delays down to 29.06 minutes. Meanwhile, Humsafar Express trains saw a notable decline in performance, with delays rising by over 26 per cent to 73.61 minutes.Some of the country's busiest eastern rail corridors—such as Howrah–Kharagpur, Ranchi–Dhanbad, and Bhubaneswar–Cuttack—faced heightened congestion, contributing to regional delays. These pressure points are expected to be central to Indian Railways' future infrastructure and scheduling upgrades.Despite temporary setbacks, the overall trend continues to point toward a more efficient rail travel experience for Indian passengers.>