India to launch super app streamlining variety of railway services : Ashwini Vaishnaw
NEW DELHI : Railways Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday, September 16 said that the Indian government is working on a super app aimed at streamlining a variety of railway-related services. While the minister did not provide specific details about the app’s features, he indicated that it will enable users to book tickets, check PNR status, track trains, and access other functionalities.
Vaishnaw underscored the substantial progress made by Indian Railways under the NDA Government over the past decade. He said, “From the passenger’s perspective, whatever services one may need will be available on the super app.”
the latest app is set to include two distinct sections: one for travelers and another dedicated to freight clients. From the perspective of the app’s users, it is expected to offer a range of services including travel packages, taxi services, airline and hotel reservations, as well as on-the-go food orders.
For freight customers, the app will provide the ability to book large items and parcels, as well as track their shipments among other features. The app is also expected to allow users to complete transactions and submit necessary documents directly within the app.
The exact launch date for the new app remains uncertain. Earlier reports suggested that the app would be introduced within 100 days following the swearing-in of the government following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
During his speech at the News18 India Chaupal event in New Delhi, Vaishnaw highlighted the significant progress Indian Railways has achieved under the NDA government over the last ten years.
“From the passenger’s perspective, whatever services one may need will be available on the super app,” he said.
Vaishnaw also pointed out the improvements in railway infrastructure, noting that more than 5,300 kilometers of tracks were laid last year, a distance he compared to Switzerland’s entire railway system.
Concerning railway safety, Vaishnaw highlighted the decrease in rail accidents, from 171 per year to around 40, attributing this to ongoing efforts to make structural changes and develop new training techniques to further reduce the number. He also announced the deployment of Kavach, a homegrown Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system, in 10,000 coaches to enhance safety and prevent accidents and derailments.
Moreover, the minister introduced Amrit Bharat trains aimed at providing affordable travel options for the common man, offering trips up to 1,000 kilometers for as low as Rs 400-Rs 450.
Vaishnaw also spoke about the increasing global interest in India’s Vande Bharat trains, mentioning inquiries from countries like Chile. “We have already got enquiries for Vande Bharat from other countries like Chile. But, we will be ready to export from the fourth and fifth version of Vande Bharat,” he added.