Konkan Railway signs Rs 23.80 crore deal with Nepal Railways

Konkan Railway in Maharashtra continues to operate cross border railways with renewed vigour as it has signed a fresh contract valued at Rs 2380 crore with Nepal Railways for the operation and maintenance of Diesel Electric Mainline Unit DEMU train services on the crossborder railway system between the JayanagarBijalpura sectionThe Konkan Railway Corporation Limited KRCL marked a significant milestone on Republic Day celebrating 26 years since the inauguration of its completed trackThe occasion was made even more special with the announcement of impressive financial accomplishments and exciting new projects reinforcing the railwayrsquos continued commitment to growth and modernisationA Year of ProgressIn 2024 Konkan Railway reached remarkable milestones both in terms of operational achievements and revenue The railway reported a revenue of Rs 1793 crore from traffic and Rs 2361 crore from projects underscoring its critical role in Indiarsquos transport infrastructure In addition 2024 saw the introduction of new train services aimed at enhancing connectivity across the region Notably the Bandra T Madgaon Jn BiWeekly Express and the Secunderabad Vasco Da Gama BiWeekly Express were launched expanding options for passengersPassenger service also saw significant growth with 19957 trains operated on the Konkan route marking an 8 per cent increase over the previous year A rise in coaching revenue which reached Rs 106958 crore further highlights the growing demand for rail travel in the region Special trains including 304 Ganpati Specials contributed an additional Rs 477 crore in earnings marking a notable 161737 growth compared to the previous yearGlobal Partnerships and CrossBorder VenturesOne of the standout announcements during the Republic Day celebrations was the signing of a Rs 2380 crore contract with Nepal Railways This agreement will support the operation and maintenance of Diesel Electric Mainline Unit DEMU train services on the crossborder railway system between Jayanagar and Bijalpura extending Konkan Railwayrsquos reach beyond Indiarsquos borders and fostering international cooperationSustainability and InnovationKonkan Railway has also made strides in sustainability and modern technology The railway is actively transitioning to electric traction with 8590 per cent of its trains now operating on electric power resulting in savings of approximately Rs 27914 crore on fuel costs The successful installation of solar plants with a combined capacity of 660 kW has further contributed to reducing energy costs saving Rs 5513 lakh in 2024 aloneTechnology and passenger experience have been enhanced with the introduction of dynamic QR code scanners at stations streamlining the ticketing process Furthermore the launch of the Rail Arcade at Madgaon Railway Station has been a welcome addition for travelers featuring modern food stalls regional delicacies and a travel booking officeEmployee Celebrations and RecognitionThe Republic Day celebrations also featured a series of activities and competitions for employees and their families Fancy dress mobile photography and drawing contests were held across various KRCL locations including Ratnagiri and Karwar The prize distribution ceremony recognized the talent and spirit of the workforce with Chairman and Managing Director Santosh Kumar Jha applauding their continued dedication to Konkan Railwayrsquos growthFuture ProspectsLooking ahead Konkan Railway will focus on its expansion plans the officials saidThey said that the completion of over 100 km of track renewal projects including Complete Track Renewal CTR and Through Weld Renewal TWR has significantly improved track integrity and safety Additionally new electrical works valued at Rs 1056 crore are set to further strengthen the railwayrsquos infrastructureIn education and training the Konkan Railway Academy along with other specialised institutes continues to offer a wide range of programs training over 400 students in 2024 alone