Indian Railways, through the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL), has decided to scale up its long-haul train operations to address a growing crew shortage and improve logistics efficiency. Long-haul operations, involving the running of trains over longer distances without crew change, will allow the railways to optimize the deployment of its manpower and resources. This move comes as Indian Railways grapples with a shortage of crew, which has been impacting the timely operation of freight trains across the network.

DFCCIL’s long-haul strategy primarily focuses on freight transport, which is vital for the country's logistics sector. By extending the distances covered by trains without requiring crew shifts, the railways aim to reduce delays, increase throughput, and maintain uninterrupted freight movement. The initiative is expected to enhance the efficiency of the Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFC), which are already designed to handle high volumes of freight traffic across key industrial routes.

The shift toward long-haul operations reflects a broader effort by Indian Railways to adapt to manpower constraints while continuing to meet the growing demands of India’s logistics and transportation sectors. It also highlights the strategic importance of freight transport in driving economic growth, as timely and efficient movement of goods is essential for industries ranging from manufacturing to agriculture.

As Indian Railways modernizes its operations, the scale-up of long-haul trains is anticipated to reduce the pressure on its workforce, while also ensuring that the rail network can support the expanding needs of the country’s freight sector. The move is part of a larger effort to optimize India's rail infrastructure and maintain competitiveness in global logistics.