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Train Accidents Drop 90% Since 2014, Says Railways Minister Vaishnaw

Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed Parliament that consequential train accidents have plummeted by nearly 90% from 2014-15 to 2025-26. He attributed this dramatic improvement to sustained safety measures, including massive investments in track maintenance and modern signalling systems. A key initiative is the rollout of the indigenous 'Kavach' automatic train protection system across major corridors. Safety-related expenditure has seen a substantial increase, rising from approximately Rs 39,200 crore in 2013-14 to over Rs 1.17 lakh crore in the current fiscal year.

Key Points: Train Accidents Down 90% on Indian Railways Since 2014-15

  • 90% drop in accidents since 2014-15
  • Safety expenditure tripled since 2013-14
  • Kavach system deployed on 1,452 route km
  • Electronic interlocking at 6,665 stations
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Train accidents decline by 90 pc since 2014-15, says Ashwini Vaishnaw

Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reports a near 90% decline in consequential train accidents, crediting safety tech like Kavach and increased investment.

"The number of consequential train accidents has reduced from 135 in 2014-15 to just 14 in 2025-26 - Ashwini Vaishnaw"

New Delhi, March 19

The number of train accidents on Indian Railways has seen a sharp decline over the years, with consequential accidents dropping by nearly 90 per cent, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told the Parliament.

In a written reply in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, the minister said safety remains the highest priority for Indian Railways, and sustained measures have significantly improved operational safety.

The number of consequential train accidents has reduced from 135 in 2014-15 to just 14 in 2025-26 (up to February 28), he said.

Data shared by the minister showed that during 2004-05 to 2013-14, there were 1,711 consequential train accidents, resulting in 904 deaths and 3,155 injuries. This declined to 678 accidents between 2014-15 and 2023-24, with 748 deaths and 2,087 injuries.

In 2024-25, 31 such accidents were reported, leading to 18 deaths and 92 injuries, while in 2025-26 (up to February), 14 accidents resulted in 16 deaths and 28 injuries, according to him.

Vaishnaw also highlighted that the decline in accidents is the result of multiple safety initiatives, including improved track maintenance, modern signalling systems and technological upgrades.

Expenditure on safety-related activities has also increased substantially, rising from Rs 39,200 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 1,17,693 crore in 2025-26, with a further allocation of Rs 1,20,389 crore for 2026-27.

To minimise human error, electronic interlocking systems have been installed at 6,665 stations, while interlocking has been provided at over 10,153 level crossing gates.

Complete track circuiting, which helps verify track occupancy through electrical means, has been implemented at 6,669 stations.

The minister also stated that the rollout of 'Kavach', an indigenously developed automatic train protection (ATP) system, was adopted as a national system in 2020. The latest version of Kavach has been deployed across 1,452 route kilometres, covering key high-density corridors such as Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Howrah routes.

Vaishnaw said continuous investments in technology and infrastructure are helping Indian Railways enhance safety and reduce accidents.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
While the decline is impressive, we must remember that even 14 accidents and 16 deaths (in 2025-26) are 14 accidents and 16 deaths too many. Every life matters. The focus should now be on bringing that number to absolute zero. The increased budget is good, but let's ensure it's used effectively on the ground, not just on paper.
A
Aman W
As someone who travels by train frequently for work, I can feel the difference. Stations are better maintained, and the announcements are clearer. The push for technology like electronic interlocking gives passengers like me more confidence. Hope the 'Kavach' system is expanded faster to all major routes!
S
Sarah B
The data comparison between the two decades is stark. From 1,711 accidents to 678 in the next ten years is a massive improvement. It's good to see concrete stats backing up the claims. The tripling of safety expenditure shows serious commitment.
K
Karthik V
Proud to see an indigenous system like Kavach being deployed. This is real Aatmanirbhar Bharat in action. However, 1,452 route km is still a small fraction of our vast network. The pace needs to increase. Also, what about the safety of passengers at unmanned crossings? That remains a big worry in many states.
M
Meera T
The reduction is commendable, but let's not become complacent. We often hear about near-misses and derailments in local news that may not make it to these 'consequential' accident lists. Continuous track maintenance is key, especially on older lines. Hope the funds reach there. 🙏

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