In a good news to all rail commuters from railway budget, there will not be any hike in rail fares this year. Additionally, quotas of senior citizens will also be increased.
Other major announcement of railway budget included India’ First rail auto hub’, boost to e-catering services, expansion of railway in north-east and Wi-fi in railways.
With an increased capital investment of Rs 1.21 lakh crore, the budget has zeroed in on capacity building for rail sector. Another aspect of the budget which has made it outstanding when compared to previous ones is its focus to finish ongoing projects rather than wide new range of new ones.
Other major announcements
*) Implementation of facility to allot berths to all reserved passenger
*) Average speed of Mail/Express trains to be increased to 80 km per hour
*) Introduction of semi highspeed trains in rail lines connecting cultural and commercial hubs
*) Ladies compartments will replaced to center part of trains
*) All railway station will be brought under CCTV surveillence
*)Goods corridor for facilitating easier cargo transport
*) Commissioning of 2500 kilometer broad gauge lines
*) Electrification of 1500 kilometer rail lines
*) Construction of 2800 kilometer of fresh railway lines
*) High-tech facilities for ensuring passenger safety
*) Introduction of ‘Thejus’ which touch a speed of 130 km per hour, called ‘future train of India’
*) Introduction of Udaya Express, a double decker night service
*) Introduction of ‘Anthyodaya Express, long distance, full reserved
