New Delhi: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday announced that Rs 3,042 crore has been allocated for railway development in Kerala. This is double the amount allocated during the UPA era, he said. Speaking at a press conference in Delhi, he also stated that 32 railway stations in Kerala would be upgraded, and an additional 200 Vande Bharat trains would be introduced across the country.

Soon after the Union Budget 2025-26, the Minister had said that the sector will expand faster with tremendous additions in the next few years thanks to the sector's big allocations.

"Rs 2,52,000 has been allocated as the gross budgetary support for Railways. By the end of 2025-26, Railways will achieve 100% electrification," the Minister said.

A few of the launches expected include around 200 Vande Bharat trains, 100 Amrit Bharat trains, 50 Namo Bharat rapid rail and 17,500 general AC coaches, said the minister, responding to the media after the budget presentation.

Here are a few of the budget highlights for railways:

1) Rs 1.08 lakh crore is dedicated to improving safety enhancements. This includes the upgradation of tracks and signalling systems, construction of flyovers and underpasses and implementation of the Kavach safety system.

2) The budget supports the expansion of the energy mineral and cement corridors, the port connectivity corridor and the high-traffic density corridor.

3) Around 40,000 conventional rail coaches will be converted to Vande Bharat standard.

4) Investment in solar energy and other energy-efficient measures

5) Partnership with private companies to improve the efficiency of rail services

6) Better wi-fi facilities at railway stations

7) Digitisation of ticketing and other services

8) Train railway staff with modern technologies for customer service and safety