The Hindu Business Line : Rail Budget

A few comments on the Railway Budget. First, the benefits of the Garib Rath, meant for travellers from poorer sections will be availed of by the wealthy middle class.

For most of the passengers from the poorer sections, even making reservations in the sleeper class is a luxury.

As for conversion of some 200 trains into super fast, we will have to wait till the new time-able is issued in July, to know for sure whether the reduction in run time is substantial or not. One hopes that the travel time for the 6011-12 express between CST-Chennai-CST will be reduced.

The minister announced that 200 automatic ticket vending machines will be set up at the Mumbai suburban railway stations. One hoped that he would have also announced the import of at least 100 coaches for the immediate relief of suburban passengers who are often a neglected lot.

S. Subramanyan

Chennai

The Rail Budget 2006- 07 puts the Railways `On a new track' (Business Line, February 25), in areas of consumer satisfaction, efficiency, economic growth and business. Fare concessions on passenger and freight, farmers and the disabled and promises of speed, safety and new amenities make the Rail Budget consumer friendly.

The reduction in season ticket charges while helping commuters could also reduce migration to cities. And an 8 per cent cut in freight rates for diesel and petrol, dedicated freight corridor to beset up is all growth oriented.

A. Jacob Sahayam

Thiruvananthapuram

Letters to the editor and contributions can be sent by e-mail to: bleditor@thehindu.co.in

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