Latest news with #IndianRailways'
Hindustan Times
7 hours ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Hadapsar railway station emerging as Pune's new satellite terminal
In a bid to decongest Pune railway station, the Pune railway division is actively developing Hadapsar railway station as a fully operational satellite terminal for long-distance trains. With train operations increasing steadily, Hadapsar is being positioned as a key alternative hub to ease the load on Pune Junction which currently sees among the highest train operation volumes in the region. Some train services have already started shifting to Hadapsar, with more expected to shift in the coming months as infrastructure upgrades near completion. The transformation of Hadapsar railway station is part of the Indian Railways' 'Amrit Bharat Station Scheme' implemented by the Gati-Shakti unit of the Pune division. The redevelopment project costs an estimated ₹135 crore and includes the extension of Up and Down platforms to 600 metres to accommodate 24-coach trains, conversion of the existing Up goods line into a common Up and Down passenger coach line, and the addition of a new goods line on the Up side. Other significant developments include the construction of a new station building, improvements to the circulating area, creation of parking facilities, and installation of water supply tank systems. Many works such as the extension of platforms 1, 2 and 3 to full 24-coach capacity and implementation of passenger amenities worth ₹11.69 crore have already been completed. The passenger amenities include modern waiting halls, enhanced seating, digital display systems and clean drinking water facilities. 'Hadapsar station is being developed to provide an airport-like experience, with features such as lifts, escalators, a 12-metre-wide foot overbridge, roof plaza, waiting rooms, and retiring rooms,' said a senior railway official on condition of anonymity. To facilitate the widening of access roads to the station, old railway quarters and the Railway Police Force (RPF) chowky have been removed. However, despite the ongoing development and enhanced facilities, passengers continue to face challenges related to connectivity and public transport. Unlike the centrally located Pune Junction, Hadapsar station lacks robust last-mile connectivity. Sneha Kulkarni, a daily commuter from Magarpatta, said, 'While it is definitely a good move to start long-distance trains from Hadapsar, the biggest problem we face is poor connectivity. There are hardly any Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) buses or shared transport options directly to the station, and auto-rickshaw drivers often refuse short rides or charge extra. The approach road also gets congested during peak hours. Unless public transport and access improve, it will remain inconvenient for many passengers, especially senior citizens and those with luggage.' Authorities acknowledge these challenges and are working in coordination with local bodies to improve public transport links to Hadapsar. Once fully operational, the station is expected to significantly reduce the burden on Pune Junction while offering more convenient options for residents of eastern Pune, including areas like Magarpatta, Amanora and Hadapsar itself. The station's transformation is expected to be complete by early 2026, representing a major leap forward in Pune's rail infrastructure and a critical component of the city's broader urban transport strategy.
News18
3 days ago
- News18
The Person Sitting Next To You On The Train Could Be An Undercover Railway Official
Last Updated: Railway officials would now travel on trains to inspect cleanliness, amenities, and safety, aiming to boost passenger confidence and ensure better service nationwide Indian Railways has launched a new campaign to enhance passenger facilities by having railway officials travel on trains to inspect and address shortcomings first-hand. Passengers might find that the person sitting next to them is a railway official who could seek feedback during the journey. These officials will check amenities such as toilets, charging points, lights, fans, availability of water, and cleanliness. If any deficiencies are found, the responsible officer must take immediate action. This campaign is part of Indian Railways' vision to prioritise passenger convenience and quality service, aimed at boosting passenger confidence and ensuring smoother, safer journeys. The campaign has begun in the Prayagraj division, where a team of 25 employees inspected 50 trains, uncovering several issues. This initiative will soon be extended to other railway divisions as well. Plan For Better Facilities The Prayagraj division is committed to providing passengers with clean toilets, pure drinking water, good food, and a comfortable journey. To curb ticketless travel and irregularities, the railway is also conducting ticket inspections at stations and onboard trains. Inspections Conducted On Multiple Trains Following directions from Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (Coaching) Himanshu Shukla, 25 commercial inspectors carried out inspections on 50 trains, including train numbers 14163, 14113, 14114, 14116, 20403, 12403, 12417, 12275/76, 04125, 04154, 20404, 04121, 14117, 04152, 04141, 04138, 22431, 22432, 04156, 12418, 14118, 22437/38, 20433, 20434, 04126, 14164, 04115, 04116, 14115, and 12404. The inspections focused on the cleanliness of coaches, toilets, lights, fans, air conditioning, water supply, linen, and charging points. Shukla confirmed that this campaign will continue to address complaints received through Rail Madad. Regular Station Checks And Ticket Inspections In addition to train inspections, regular and surprise ticket checks will be conducted at stations, on trains, and along railway sections to prevent fare evasion. This will not only improve passenger facilities but also make railway operations more efficient. First Published: May 30, 2025, 15:58 IST
Time of India
3 days ago
- General
- Time of India
CR Nagpur Division holds seminar on ‘Combating plastic pollution'
1 2 Nagpur: Central Railway's Nagpur Division observed World Environment Day 2025 with a special seminar on the theme 'Combating Plastic Pollution' at Nagpur Railway Station. The event was aimed at promoting environmental awareness and encouraging sustainable alternatives to plastic use among passengers and staff. As part of the awareness drive, cloth bags were distributed to passengers to discourage the use of single-use plastic. The initiative served as a practical example of individual contribution towards environmental protection. Senior officials from various departments including engineering, medical, commercial, and security participated in the seminar. A large number of staff and passengers also attended, highlighting the collective commitment to building a cleaner, greener future. During the seminar, railway officials spoke on the serious impact of plastic pollution on the environment and human health. They emphasised the urgent need to reduce plastic consumption and shift to eco-friendly habits in daily life. The event underlined Indian Railways' continued efforts to lead in sustainable practices and public engagement. Nagpur Division remains committed to adopting green initiatives and supporting the national movement for a plastic-free environment.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Indian Railways to achieve net zero targets in 2025 itself - 5 years ahead of 2030 goal
By the end of December, Indian Railways will achieve 'Scope 1 net zero', successfully offsetting 2.2 million tonne CO2. In a big boost to Indian Railways ' green plans, the national transporter is set to reach its net zero objectives in the current year, significantly earlier than its 2030 target, primarily due to comprehensive electrification efforts. By the end of December, Indian Railways will achieve 'Scope 1 net zero', successfully offsetting 2.2 million tonne CO2, which exceeds its emissions by 200,000 tonnes, according to Indian Railways officials. By 2030, the Indian Railways anticipates requiring approximately 10 gigawatt (GW) of electricity for train operations. The distribution plan includes 3 GW from renewable sources including hydropower, whilst another 3 GW will come from thermal and nuclear sources. The remaining 4 GW requirement shall be fulfilled through arrangements with power distribution companies. On Track for net zero plans A senior official informed ET, "Over 90% of the traction (energy used to power trains) is on electric. This will rise to 95% by 2029-30." The government-operated railway network is currently focusing on decreasing indirect emissions, particularly from electricity generated by thermal power stations. Official data indicates that the Indian Railways' carbon emissions reduced from 3.32 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) in 2023-24. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 2025 Top Trending local enterprise accounting software [Click Here] Esseps Learn More Undo The official stated, "At 90% electric traction (in 2024-25), Scope 1 carbon emissions stood at 2.02 mtpa. This will come down to 1.37 mtpa with 95% electric traction from 2025-26 onwards." Also Read | Indian Railways bets on nuclear power - details here Indian Railways is actively pursuing renewable energy sources, including solar and wind power, while also exploring nuclear energy options. "This will address indirect emissions (Scope II and III)," the official added. According to officials, requests have been submitted to the power ministry to allocate roughly 2 GW of nuclear power for Indian Railways. Plans include sourcing 2 GW thermal power through new joint ventures and power purchase agreements. Additionally, negotiations are ongoing for 500 megawatt round-the-clock renewable energy procurement. The transition to electric power brings both environmental benefits and financial advantages for the Indian Railways. The expenditure on diesel for traction is projected to decrease to Rs 9,528.53 crore in 2025-26, marking the lowest projected diesel spending by the railways in over ten years. Also Read | Indian Railways' first 9,000 HP electric locomotive engine inaugurated by PM Modi; unveils Dahod's loco workshop - Top facts Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Time of India
5 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Indian Railways' Handball Teams win at 36th Federation Cup
Gorakhpur: Indian Railways' men and women handball teams emerged as champions at the 36th Federation Cup National Handball Championship held at Veer Bahadur Singh Sports College, Gorakhpur, from May 23 to 26, said CPRO, NER, Pankaj Kumar Singh. The winning women's team featured four players from NER — Sushma, Monika, Jyoti, and Asha — while the men's team included Nand Kishore Yadav, Happy, Bhupendra, Ravindra Pal, and Sunil. A dditionally, NER players Manjula Pathak, Moni Chaudhary, Priya, and Mona represented the Uttar Pradesh women's team, which finished as runners-up. NER's Raj Kumar Yadav also served as manager for the Indian Railways men's team. In another sports achievement, the newly built lawn tennis courts at Syed Modi Railway Stadium in Gorakhpur hosted the two-day Chhotelal Memorial Tennis Tournament on May 26 and 27. Inaugurated by NERSA general secretary/ CPRO Pankaj Kumar Singh, the tournament witnessed participation of 50 boys and girls across 8, 10, 14, and 16-year age groups under the supervision of Anand Jeet Lal.
