NEW DELHI: In a move aimed at improving passenger convenience and accessibility, the Indian Railways has decided to prioritise the construction of rail underpasses over foot overbridges at stations and track-crossing points, wherever feasible.
The decision was taken at a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting and Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw at Rail Bhawan on April 3, 2026. Officials said the shift in approach is intended to ensure safer and more convenient movement for passengers across railway tracks.
Reviewing earlier plans for constructing rail underpasses (puliyas), the Minister observed that underpasses are more user-friendly and are likely to be utilised more frequently by the public compared to foot overbridges. He directed officials to prioritise such infrastructure both within station premises and in adjoining areas.
As part of the initiative, pilot projects will be undertaken in different parts of the country. These underpasses will be designed to accommodate not just pedestrians but also cyclists and users of two-wheelers such as scooters and motorcycles. In certain locations, wider structures will be developed to facilitate the movement of tractors and other vehicles, particularly in rural areas. Officials said that the design of these underpasses will be adapted to suit local requirements in both urban and rural settings.
Emphasising a passenger-centric approach, Vaishnaw reiterated that providing a better travel experience, especially for the poor and middle class, remains a key priority for Indian Railways. He called upon officials across zones to work in a coordinated manner to achieve this objective.
The Minister also reviewed the overall performance of the Railways and commended officials for improvements in safety and operations. He highlighted that a significant reduction in rail accidents and record freight loading have contributed to strengthening the public image of the national transporter. He also appreciated the operation of a large number of special trains during festival seasons, which helped manage increased passenger demand.
Highlighting the importance of station infrastructure, Vaishnaw said that railway stations serve as the primary interface between the Railways and the public, and must be maintained in a clean and efficient manner. He urged officials to focus on improving sanitation and passenger amenities across stations.
Referring to the substantial allocation made towards railway modernisation in recent years, the Minister stressed the need for optimal utilisation of funds to upgrade infrastructure and enhance passenger facilities. He also underlined the importance of effective crowd management, particularly during peak travel periods, to ensure smooth access to platforms and trains.
The meeting also reviewed the status of land acquisition for ongoing railway projects. Vaishnaw directed officials to expedite pending cases and suggested seeking assistance from experienced retired officers from State revenue and forest departments to address bottlenecks.
On the issue of people living near railway tracks, the Minister called for a humane and sensitive approach, emphasising that livelihoods should not be adversely affected. He asked officials to work in coordination with State governments to resolve such matters in a timely manner.
The Minister further noted improvements in punctuality across railway zones and appreciated those maintaining over 85% on-time performance despite operational challenges.
He said that with continued focus on safety, efficiency and passenger comfort, Indian Railways is well-positioned to further improve service quality and overall travel experience.
