Indian Railways Eyes Nuclear Power for Energy Needs, Ticket Concession To Every Person is 46 pc On Average: Ashwini Vaishnaw

New Delhi: Indian Railways is exploring nuclear energy as a potential power source to meet its increasing electricity demands. Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw revealed that discussions are underway with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and the Ministry of Power (MoP) for the allocation of nuclear-generated electricity to support railway operations.

Vaishnaw emphasized that nuclear energy, being both clean and reliable, will help the railways reduce dependence on fossil fuels and significantly cut carbon emissions. As part of its sustainability push, Indian Railways is actively looking to source power from existing and upcoming nuclear power plants.

46% Average Ticket Subsidy for Passengers
Addressing passenger fare concessions, the Minister highlighted that Indian Railways provided a subsidy of ₹56,993 crore in 2022-23, effectively covering 46% of ticket costs on average. This means if the actual cost of a journey is ₹100, passengers pay only ₹54, with the remaining amount subsidized by the government.

“This subsidy continues for all passengers, and additional concessions remain in place for persons with disabilities, students, and patients in certain categories,” Vaishnaw said.

Passenger Benefits & Special Reservations
Between 2020 and December 2024, approximately 2,357.8 crore passengers traveled on Indian Railways, including senior citizens who benefit from reserved lower berths. The railways earmarks a quota of six to seven lower berths per sleeper coach, four to five in AC 3-tier, and three to four in AC 2-tier for elderly passengers, women above 45 years of age, and pregnant women.

With nuclear energy in the pipeline and passenger concessions continuing, Indian Railways is moving towards a more sustainable and passenger-friendly future.