Lucknow Rail Division Proposes Running Two Express Trains Together to Ease Track Pressure

Proposal Details

Indian Railways is exploring a unique plan to run two passenger trains together on the same track to ease heavy congestion on busy routes. The Lucknow rail division of Northern Railway has prepared and sent this proposal to the Railway Board for review. According to Prabhat Khabar, the plan aims to make better use of existing rail networks without laying new tracks, drawing on the concept of long-haul freight operations where multiple goods trains are linked together.

Network Overload

Railway officials drafted the proposal after the Railway Board asked all zones for ideas to increase operating capacity using current resources. Double lines on busy stretches are currently being used far beyond their actual limits. The Lucknow-Moradabad section is operating at 125 to 130 percent of its capacity, carrying a gross metric ton weight that is 25 to 30 percent higher than normal limits, making it difficult to manage both passenger and freight traffic.

Implementation Plan

Under the initial pilot project, the division suggests connecting 12 to 16 coach intercity trains running in the same direction on routes shorter than 300 kilometers. LHB coaches feature automated gates, which could assist with passenger movement. A stop of 20 minutes at stations is being considered, giving 10 minutes for the front train and another 10 minutes for the rear train to let passengers board and exit.

Technical Challenges

Stopping these combined trains at intermediate stations poses a major challenge, as it could block tracks and cause lines of waiting trains behind them, disrupting points and switches. The final decision depends on safety assessments and technical tests conducted by the Railway Board.

Context

Rail networks across densely populated corridors often face severe congestion as passenger and freight demands outpace infrastructure growth. While laying new tracks requires massive capital and time, railway divisions increasingly look at operational innovations to squeeze more efficiency out of existing lines. However, any change to train coupling and scheduling must clear strict safety standards before commercial rollout.