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Indian Railways is drawing up a comprehensive master plan for the integrated development of Varanasi's three major stations -- Kashi, Varanasi Cantt, and Banaras with the goal of expanding train departure capacity from around 150 trains at present to between 400 and 500.

The plan is expected to enhance operational efficiency by nearly 25 per cent.

The initiative was reviewed by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who visited Varanasi following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's flagging off of four new Vande Bharat trains from the city.

After the ceremony, Vaishnaw inspected the ongoing construction and redevelopment works at Varanasi's key stations and assessed the passenger facilities being implemented under the modernisation programme.

On Friday (7 November), Railway Board Chairperson and CEO Satish Kumar also conducted a review inspection at Varanasi Railway Station and held detailed discussions with local officials regarding the progress of the project.

Following his inspection of the stations, the Railway Minister toured the Banaras Rail Engine Factory (BLW), formerly known as BARECA, where he visited the Loco Frame Shop, Loco Assembly Shop, and Loco Test Shop.

He gathered detailed technical inputs on the locomotive manufacturing process and interacted with employees, including women staff members, encouraging them to continue contributing to innovation and excellence.

Vaishnaw reiterated that there should be no compromise on quality in locomotive manufacturing. BLW must continue to be recognised for its high quality and innovation.