Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Launches Revolutionary ‘Indian Railways Construction Manual, 2023’ for Accelerated Infrastructure Development

In a groundbreaking development for the Indian Railways, the Union Minister of Railways, Communications, and Electronic & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, unveiled ‘The Indian Railways Construction Manual, 2023’ today in New Delhi. This comprehensive manual is poised to streamline and enhance various construction-related activities, including land acquisition, forest clearance, bridge design, contract management, tunnel construction, and road flyover/under bridges.

Addressing the gathering at the launch event, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the multifaceted utility of the construction manual. He emphasized its role in catapulting Indian Railways towards becoming the world’s fastest-growing rail network. The manual is a significant stride forward, providing a contemporary framework for construction activities compared to its outdated predecessor dating back to around 1960.

Vaishnaw praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering focus on the railways, especially the construction of new tracks and stations. The updated manual incorporates crucial reforms, including the integration of Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contracts, standardization of bridge construction, and execution of signaling, electrical, and non-interlocking works.

Acknowledging the commendable efforts of Roop Narayan Sunkar, former Member (Infrastructure), Railway Board, and the entire team involved in preparing the manual, the Union Minister underscored the manual’s pivotal role in the Prime Minister’s mission to modernize and expand the railway network.

The Indian Railway Institute of Civil Engineering, along with construction officers from different zonal railways, played a crucial role in compiling this manual, considered a milestone in empowering construction officials with the necessary knowledge for the swift execution of projects.

Aligned with the objectives outlined in the National Rail Plan, the Indian Railways aims to enhance its capacity by 2030 to meet the burgeoning demand up to 2050. The manual is designed to guide construction officials in critical aspects, ensuring clarity and ease of understanding for effective implementation in the field. This initiative is a key stride towards achieving the ambitious targets set for the comprehensive development of railway infrastructure in the coming years.