Free Wi-Fi at 6,117 Railway Stations: How to Connect and What Passengers Need to Know
From the bustling platforms of Mumbai Central to the remote stations of the Northeast, Indian Railways has officially bridged the digital divide by providing high-speed internet access to millions of commuters daily.
Massive Expansion of Digital Connectivity Across Indian Railways
In a significant boost to the Digital India mission, Union Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, confirmed in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on December 17, 2025, that free Wi-Fi services have now been successfully deployed at 6,117 railway stations across the country. This milestone marks a major leap in improving the passenger experience, allowing travelers to stay connected for work, education, and entertainment while in transit.
The expansion is part of a broader strategy to modernize India’s rail infrastructure, transforming railway stations into digital hubs. Minister Vaishnaw emphasized that this connectivity is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that even passengers in rural or underserved regions have access to the global digital economy.
User Privacy and Ease of Access: How to Connect to RailWire Wi-Fi
Addressing concerns regarding data security, the Ministry of Railways has streamlined the login process to prioritize user privacy. Unlike many public networks that require extensive personal details, the 6117 railway stations Wi-Fi network requires only a mobile number.
Step-by-Step Access:
- Turn on Wi-Fi on your smartphone and select the “RailWire” network.
- A login page will automatically appear on your browser.
- Enter your mobile number to receive a One-Time Password (OTP).
- Once verified via OTP, you gain instant access to high-speed internet.
The Minister clarified that no personal information beyond the mobile number is collected, ensuring a secure and hassle-free experience for commuters.
Funding and Infrastructure Management
One of the most notable aspects of this rollout is the fiscal management behind it. The Ministry confirmed that no separate funds were specifically sanctioned for the provision of these Wi-Fi services. Instead, the project has been integrated into existing digital infrastructure frameworks and executed through partnerships with various stakeholders, including RailTel.
To ensure the sustainability of the service, railway administrations have been directed to monitor performance closely. Local authorities have been empowered to take prompt action on any reported technical glitches, ensuring that the Indian Railways free Wi-Fi 2025 standards remain high for all users.
Beyond Connectivity: A Focused Push for Passenger Safety
While the internet is a major draw, the government is simultaneously upgrading security through advanced technology. The Minister’s update highlighted that CCTV surveillance has now reached 1,731 stations and is installed in 11,953 coaches.
Specific attention has been given to the national capital; the New Delhi Railway Station is now equipped with 250 CCTV cameras, many of which cover newly developed areas and platforms renovated after February 2025. This dual focus on connectivity and safety underscores the government’s commitment to creating a “Smart Railway” ecosystem.
The Future of Digital India on Tracks
The availability of high-speed internet at 6,117 stations complements the existing 4G and 5G coverage provided by private telecom operators, ensuring that there are virtually no “dark zones” in India’s rail network. As the Ashwini Vaishnaw Lok Sabha update suggests, the focus now shifts toward maintaining these assets and exploring further innovations in passenger-centric digital services.
Source: Press Release by Ministry of Railways, Government of India.
