Indian Railways: Maximizing Land Use Amid Encroachments

Indian Railways manages approximately 4.90 lakh hectares of land, with 0.22% encroached and 1% used commercially. The Railways generated Rs 3,129.49 crore from commercial land use in 2024-25. Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw detailed permissions for land use, including social infrastructure and a partnership with the Sports Authority of India.

Devdiscourse News Desk | New Delhi | Updated: 01-08-2025 19:45 IST | Created: 01-08-2025 19:45 IST

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Indian Railways is exercising strategic land management, according to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who highlighted the balance between encroachment and commercial utilization. About 0.22% of the railway's expansive landholdings are currently under encroachment.

In the 2024-25 fiscal year, the commercial use of this land resulted in earnings of Rs 3,129.49 crore for the Railways. This significant figure was part of the minister's report addressing queries about land use in the railway sector.

The Minister also noted the facilitation of social infrastructure projects, allowing land use for schools and hospitals. The Indian Railways has also partnered with the Sports Authority of India to foster sports development, particularly in Cooch Behar.

(With inputs from agencies.)