Thaindian News

Amidst speculations concerning the betterment of the services provided in train, Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee presented a “pro-people” budget in the Parliament today.

The main concern of the budget regarding the hike of passenger fares was wiped off as Ms. Banerjee declared that there will be no possible hike on passenger fares as well as for the freight charges.

This declaration brought relief to many commuters who feared a possible fare hike. The freight traffic target has been reduced to 882 mn tonnes for FY09-10. The Railway Minister’s budget also reduced the minimum Tatkal fee from Rs.100 to Rs.150. Ms. Banerjee introduced Air Conditioned double Decker coaches meant for intercity commuters. The Railway Minister also expressed her opinion on introducing as many as 50 mobile rail ticket vans. Putting stress on the health of the passengers, the Railway Minister said that at least one doctor will be posted in long distance trains.

The move supposedly brought relief to the passengers belonging to the ’senior citizen’ category. Ms. Banerjee was kind enough to the Railway employees as she declared that higher education will be provided to the “next generation” railway employees. The 2009-10 Railway Budget also witnessed the newly appointed Railway Minister declaring that as many as seven nursing colleges will be set up in railway land at places like Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. During the session, Ms.Banerjee also declared to acquire 18,000 wagons in FY10.

It was also declared that Super fast parcel express trains will be rolled on a pilot basis between Delhi - Chennai and Delhi - Mumbai. She also introduced a new chain of trains named as “Yuva” which will provide service to the youth of the country. The budget also brought relief to the students who travel via Metro rail as the Railway Minister declared that as much as 60% concession over the tickets will be provided to the former. 50% concession will be provided for the journalists along with their spouse.

As stated in this years budget, the Unreserved ticketing systems are to be expanded from 5,000 to 8,000 terminals. Ms. Banerjee also introduced a new scheme called “Izzat” meant for people whose monthly income are below Rs.1500. She stated that the Railways will be making efforts with Department of Heavy Industries for taking over of ailing wagon manufacturing units like Burn Standards. The Minister also declared that budgetary support will be extended to 5,000 crore from the interim budget. Temperature control perishable cargo terminals are in the offing.

The working expenditure of the Railways has been pegged at 81,665 crore. Ms. Banerjee also expressed her views to introduce non-stop train services.