Budget Spares Fare Hike, Promises Modern, Global Network

NEW DELHI: Keeping passenger fares unchanged, Minister Suresh Prabhu presented his maiden budget for Indian Railways Thursday, promising to balance passenger needs and long-term interests of the organization to benchmark it globally on quality, safety and reach.

Nine more high-speed trains, faster speed of existing trains, Wi-Fi in 400 stations, user-friendly ladders to mount upper berths, easier norms for unreserved tickets, 17,000 bio-toilets in trains, better connectivity in north-east, and cameras for safety of women travelers are among the other highlights of the budget.

"There will be no hike in passenger fares. We will focus on improving passenger amenities, including cleanliness," Railway Minister Prabhu said in a 66-minute speech in the Lok Sabha, watched keenly by Prime Minister Narendra Modi who had handpicked him for the job.

He made no mention of any revision in freight tariff, as has been the norm in the past.

The minister also promised all this with a vastly improved operating ratio, which spells out how much money is spent on day-to-day operations to earn revenues -- an indication of the funds left for safety and expansion.
Read Also:
Android And iOS Grab 96.3 Pct In The Global OS Market
6 Unique Business Ideas That Help in Minting Money