Pre-Budget Expectations: Hari Somalraju ( MD & CEO , SYSTRA INDIA )

Currently, India is in a transitional phase in the urban transportation segment, and the Union Budget 2025 would go a long way in defining its future. India currently has the third largest metro network in the world with over 1,000 kilometers of network across 23 cities and it aims to be second largest network with another 1,000 km in pipeline. It is crucial to implement transit-oriented development, which allows the reduction of traffic congestion by 30% and the increase in property values near transit stations by 20%. Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Corridor as well as expansions like Delhi Metro Phase IV demonstrate the government’s commitment to effective urbanisation and mobility solutions.

In the railway infrastructure, there are expected plans and investments in high speed rails, new types of freight transport, renewable energy project plans and modernization of stations. Implementing the Kavach anti-collision system and using AI and IoT on expanding them will improve safety and functionality. Furthermore, capacity building initiatives for PPP and terminal redevelopment by private players will complement the ecosystem.

The next budget is set to be a historical one for the metro and railway sectors particularly focusing on safety, technology, and sustainability. At SYSTRA India, we stand ready to support these initiatives to enable the paradigm shift in India’s transport system for the better to meet the requirements of the future.