Train passengers across India experienced improved journey timings nationally in 2024, although some routes and regions still face challenges. The insights derived from data compiled from train passengers using the RailYatri platform show a notable reduction in delays nationwide. The average train delays faced dropped by nearly 8% in 2024 compared to 2023, with median delays decreasing from 20 minutes to 18 minutes.

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Improvements for Travelers in Many States

Passengers in states like Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Gujarat have enjoyed significant reductions in delays, with improvements ranging from 16% to 32% in 2024.

• Uttarakhand: 32% reduction in delays. (Avg: 35 mins, Median: 10 mins)
• Punjab: 20% reduction in delays. (Avg: 42 mins, Median: 15 mins)
• Gujarat: 19% reduction in delays. (Avg: 24 mins, Median: 11 mins)
• Chhattisgarh: 18% reduction in delays. (Avg: 61 mins, Median: 22 mins)
• Madhya Pradesh: 16% reduction in delays. (Avg: 53 mins, Median: 19 mins)

Regions with Increased Delays

Despite improvements, certain states saw increased delays this year.

• West Bengal: 16% increase in delays (Avg: 48 mins, Median: 18 mins)
• Odisha: 5% increase in delays (Avg: 69 mins, Median: 35 mins)
• Tamil Nadu: 4% increase in delays (Avg: 29 mins, Median: 14 mins)
• Kerala: 3% increase in delays (Avg: 31 mins, Median: 16 mins)
• Assam: 2% increase in delays (Avg: 53 mins, Median: 20 mins)

Comparison of Delays

State-wise Delay Summary

• Least Delays: Uttarakhand (10 mins), Gujarat (10 mins), Tamil Nadu (14 mins), Delhi (14 mins), Punjab (15 mins).
• Most Delays: Goa (41 mins), Odisha (35 mins), Telangana (35 mins), Uttar Pradesh (23 mins), Chhattisgarh (22 mins).

Delays by Train Types in 2024

Delays varied depending on the type of trains taken by passengers:

1. Humsafar Express: ~55 mins average delays (22% reduction from 2023).
2. Duronto Express: ~47 mins average delays (14% reduction from 2023).
3. Shatabdi Express: ~17 mins average delays (10% reduction).
4. Mail/Express/Superfast: ~39 mins average delays (6% reduction).
5. Intercity Trains: ~25 mins average delays (8% improvement).
6. Vande Bharat: ~17 mins average delays (21% increase).

Passenger experience has evidently improved across many regions in India as reflected in the RailYatri data for 2024.