Exploring Indian Railways’ top 5 trains that make over Rs 100 crore each year

Indian Railways, a transportation network serving millions of passengers daily, has been a vital part of the country for over a century. Its deep connection with the people makes train travel more than just a commute, it’s an experience. Embedded in the fabric of Indian life, Indian Railways significantly contributes to the nation’s economy, handling both passenger and freight transport.

Compared to other modes of transport, train travel offers a combination of convenience, safety, and affordability. Consequently, it is the primary choice for many from lower and middle-income groups when traveling. Trains have become a crucial means of transport for the common people, serving everyone equally, regardless of gender, caste, religion, or region. This inclusive nature is why the significance of Indian Railways remains undiminished even after a century.

However, it is a misconception to consider Indian Railways, a lifeline for the poor, as financially weak. In reality, Indian Railways is financially robust. For the financial year 2024-25, an allocation of approximately Rs 2,62,200 crore has been designated for the railways, highlighting its significant financial strength and scale.

Indian Railways also operates trains that generate revenue exceeding Rs 100 crore. These high-earning trains significantly contribute to the railway's finances. Let’s explore the top 5 such trains that bring in substantial revenue.

This train operates between Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, and Delhi, the nation's capital, covering a distance of 2,367 km. It plays a crucial role in connecting the northern and southern parts of the country, with thousands of passengers travelling daily. The high volume of travellers ensures that this train remains consistently crowded, leading to substantial revenue generation.

In the fiscal year 2022-23, the Bengaluru Rajdhani Express carried 5,09,510 passengers and generated revenue exceeding Rs 176 crore.

2. Sealdah Rajdhani Express: 

Train number 12314, the Sealdah Express, links Delhi, the nation's capital, with Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal. As one of the busiest trains in the country, it served 5,09,164 passengers in the fiscal year 2022-23, generating revenue exceeding Rs 128 crore.

3. Dibrugarh Express: 

This train operates between Dibrugarh in Assam and Delhi. Last year, it transported over 4 lakh passengers and earned more than Rs 126 crore in revenue.

4. Mumbai Tejas Rajdhani Express: 

This train operates between Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra, and Delhi. As it connects two of the most populous cities in the country, it is consistently crowded. Last year, it carried 4,85,794 passengers and generated a revenue of Rs 122 crore.

5. Dibrugarh Rajdhani Express: 

Several trains operate on the route from Dibrugarh in Assam to Delhi, and all of them are typically crowded, leading to high revenue. Last year, the Dibrugarh Rajdhani Express alone carried 4,20,215 passengers and earned the Railways over Rs 116 crore.