Indian Railways, a key pillar of India’s connectivity and economy, has taken a significant step toward modernization with the introduction of its first “privately” run train, the Tejas Express. Operated by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), the Lucknow-Delhi Tejas Express has shown promising results, generating a profit of around ₹70 lakh and earning nearly ₹3.70 crore through ticket sales as of October. Since commencing operations on October 5, the train has maintained an average occupancy of 80–85 percent, running six days a week.
Tejas Express: A Profitable Start to India’s Privately Operated Train Era
In its initial 21 days, the IRCTC incurred operational costs of approximately ₹3 crore, averaging ₹14 lakh per day. However, with a daily revenue of around ₹17.5 lakh, the train has proven financially viable. This venture marks a major milestone, being the first time a train is operated not by Indian Railways directly but by its own subsidiary.
The Tejas Express offers a premium travel experience, including combination meals, complimentary travel insurance up to ₹25 lakh, and delay compensation. It is part of a broader initiative by Indian Railways to develop 50 world-class stations and introduce 150 privately operated trains, enhancing passenger convenience and infrastructure standards.
Task Force Formed to Drive Rail Privatization, Tejas Express Leads the Way
To push this privatization and redevelopment drive forward, the government has formed a special task force made up of secretaries from various departments. However, the task force has yet to hold its first meeting. The Tejas Express sets the tone for a new era in Indian Railways, aiming to blend public infrastructure with private efficiency and customer-oriented services.
Summary:
The Tejas Express, India’s first privately operated train run by IRCTC, has earned ₹3.70 crore and ₹70 lakh profit in 21 days with 80–85% occupancy. Offering premium services, it marks a shift in Indian Railways’ modernization efforts, alongside plans for 150 private trains and 50 world-class stations.
