Indian Railways Boosts Coach Production, Focuses On Non-AC Coaches For Common Man

Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone in the financial year 2024-25 by manufacturing 7,134 coaches, marking a 9% increase from the previous year’s production of 6,541 coaches. Special emphasis was placed on non-A/C coaches, with 4,601 coaches produced to cater to the needs of the common man. This rise reflects India’s growing focus on modernizing railway infrastructure to meet increasing passenger demand.

Indian Railways has three coach manufacturing units in the country: the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu; the Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala, Punjab; and the Modern Coach Factory (MCF) in Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh. The Integral Coach Factory (ICF), the premier passenger coach-producing unit of Indian Railways in Chennai, surpassed its previous production records for the year 2024-25 by rolling out 3,007 coaches.

Production Breakdown by Coach Factory

Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Produced 3,007 coaches in 2024-25, 178 more than in 2023-24.

In 2023-24, ICF produced 2,829 coaches.

Rail Coach Factory (RCF), Kapurthala, Punjab

Produced 2,102 coaches in 2024-25, 201 more than in 2023-24.

In 2023-24, RCF produced 1,901 coaches.

Modern Coach Factory (MCF), Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh

Produced 2,025 coaches in 2024-25, 341 more than in 2023-24.

In 2023-24, MCF produced 1,684 coaches.

Growth in Domestic Manufacturing

Coach production in India has expanded substantially over the years. Between 2004 and 2014, Indian Railways manufactured fewer than 3,300 coaches per year on average. However, from 2014 to 2024, production saw a major boost, with 54,809 coaches manufactured, averaging 5,481 coaches per year. This aligns with the push for improved connectivity and self-reliance in railway manufacturing. The expansion is part of a broader effort to enhance domestic production capabilities, reduce dependence on imports, and integrate advanced technology into railway design.

Improving Passenger Experience and Connectivity

The record-breaking coach production aligns with the government’s ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ vision, ensuring improved public transport services while also promoting domestic manufacturing. With more coaches being introduced, passengers can expect better facilities, enhanced safety features, and increased capacity to accommodate growing demand.

Additionally, this achievement strengthens the ‘Make in India’ initiative, reinforcing India’s position as a key player in railway manufacturing. By focusing on modern, energy-efficient, and passenger-friendly coaches, Indian Railways is making significant strides toward building a more robust and future-ready transport network.

"With ongoing efforts in railway electrification, high-speed corridors, and upgraded passenger services, the increased coach production will play a vital role in shaping the future of India’s rail transport system, ensuring greater efficiency, comfort, and accessibility for millions of passengers" said a senior railway officials.