As of 2023, the length of rail lines in India stood at 68.8 thousand route-kilometers. The period between 2013 and 2023 showed varied year-on-year changes with significant fluctuations: a high in 2018 with a 2.79% increase, and a notable dip in 2019 with a -2.65% change. More recently, 2022 and 2023 saw modest increases of 0.63% and 0.39% respectively. The CAGR over the last 5 years leading up to 2023 was -0.13%, indicating a very slight decline in average annual growth.
Looking forward, the forecasted length of rail lines in India is expected to grow from 69.07 thousand route-kilometers in 2024 to 70.11 thousand route-kilometers by 2028. The expected average annual growth (CAGR) over the next five years is 0.3%, with an overall growth rate of 1.51% during this period.
Future trends to watch for include the impact of government policies on infrastructure development, technology advancements in rail systems, and economic factors influencing expansion projects. Continued investment in electrification and high-speed rail projects may also play a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of rail line expansions in India.
