Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Highlights Key Achievements of Indian Railways in Lok Sabha

Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, addressed the Lok Sabha on 11th December, 2024, shedding light on several important initiatives undertaken by Indian Railways. In response to questions from Members of Parliament, the Minister discussed efforts aimed at improving passenger convenience, operational efficiency, safety, and transparency in recruitment.

Enhancing Passenger Comfort and Infrastructure Development

Shri Vaishnaw emphasized the Railways' commitment to serving both economically weaker and general categories by ensuring a balanced coach ratio. He announced the launch of a special manufacturing program to produce 12,000 general coaches, with 900 already added this financial year. The target is to manufacture 10,000 more, ensuring better facilities for unreserved category passengers.

In preparation for the upcoming Mahakumbh, Shri Vaishnaw revealed that 13,000 trains have been planned to manage the surge in passengers, specifically catering to the middle class and economically weaker families.

Operational Efficiency During Peak Seasons

Highlighting the success of special trains during peak travel seasons, the Minister shared that approximately 7,900 trains operated during the Chhath and Diwali festivals, transporting over 1.8 crore passengers smoothly, ensuring minimal inconveniences.

Innovation in Train Services

Shri Vaishnaw also spoke about the introduction of the Amrit Bharat train series, designed for non-AC passengers. These trains, equipped with advanced technology similar to Vande Bharat, offer a smooth, jerk-free travel experience. The Minister announced plans to manufacture 50 more Amrit Bharat trains following their successful operation over the past ten months.

Additionally, the Namo Bharat trains, intended for short-distance city connections, have been launched with two already in operation. These trains aim to set new standards in regional train services for the Indian middle class.

Transparency in Recruitment

The Union Minister highlighted the success of the recent Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) exams, which saw 1.26 crore candidates participating across 211 cities, with no paper leaks or incidents. As a result, 1,30,581 young people were employed, underscoring the transparency and efficiency of the recruitment process. The Railways have also introduced an annual recruitment calendar, with current hiring underway for 58,642 positions.

Commitment to Safety

Shri Vaishnaw concluded by addressing safety measures, stating that all unmanned authorized level crossings have now been either manned or replaced with flyovers and underpasses. Over the past decade, 12,000 such structures have been constructed, significantly improving safety and operational efficiency.

The Minister's address highlighted Indian Railways' ongoing efforts to modernize infrastructure, improve passenger services, and ensure a fair and transparent recruitment process.

Source/ PIB