Railways on the Right Track: India’s Efficient and Safer Rail Network – A Vision for a Brighter Tomorrow

Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming Indian Railways into a modern, efficient, and environmentally sustainable transport system, during a discussion in the Lok Sabha yesterday. Vaishnaw’s remarks came as the country’s rail network continues to navigate challenges, including rising costs, competition from other modes of transport, and concerns over safety and reliability.

Despite these challenges, the minister reassured the House that the railway system is in good financial health, with no fare increases since 2020. “We are committed to providing a cost-effective service to our passengers, with fares that are significantly lower compared to other countries,” he said. The minister also highlighted the railways’ contribution to job creation, with over five lakh new jobs created in the last decade, and an ongoing recruitment drive for an additional one lakh positions.

Vaishnaw provided an update on the railways’ punctuality performance, stating that the network has achieved an impressive 90% on-time performance through the adoption of advanced signalling systems, real-time monitoring, AI-driven scheduling, and predictive maintenance. To meet surge in passenger demand during peak festive seasons, the railways operated a record number of special trains, reflecting the network’s commitment to reliability and improved service delivery.

The minister also emphasized the railway’s focus on passenger safety, with a range of technical changes implemented and ongoing efforts to improve services, including the introduction of longer rails, electronic interlocking, and fog safety devices. India’s rail network has also become a significant exporter of railway-related equipment and services, with exports to countries such as Australia, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, and Italy.

The minister’s remarks were met with protests from opposition members, including those from the Congress, DMK, TMC, and other parties, who objected to recent comments made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the Mahakumbh festival in Prayagraj. As a result, the House was adjourned for the day, with discussions on the Demands for Grants under the Ministry of Jal Shakti for 2025-26, and other matters, deferred. Despite the opposition protest, the minister’s remarks offer a glimpse into the ongoing efforts to modernize and improve India’s rail network, with a focus on efficiency, sustainability, and passenger safety.

Original Source: https://www.newsonair.gov.in/indian-railways-in-good-financial-condition-focused-on-modernization-safety-railways-minister/
Category : National
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-03-19 07:06:00