The Hindu Business Line : Rlys targets operating ratio of 77 in '06-07

Having generated internal resources (including dividend) of Rs 13,000 crore in the previous fiscal, the Indian Railways is targeting an improved operating ratio of 77 for 2006-07. This means that it aims to earn Re 1 by spending 77 paise in 2006-07, against 83.7 paise in the last financial year.

The Railways must try to achieve Rs 20,000 crore of internal resources this year, reiterated the Railway Minister, Mr Lalu Prasad, while speaking to Railway General Managers.

Gauge conversion

He stressed on the need to speed up the gauge conversion works. "We must convert metre gauge to broad gauge," said Mr Prasad, adding that unmanned level crossings must be taken care of soon to ensure high safety record.

The Minister also said that a committee has been set up that would ensure auctioning of scrap from Railways.

"Every 10 km, there are speed restrictions. This, too, should be cleared to ensure faster movement of trains," said Mr Prasad. Moreover, pointing out that there has been reduction in passenger earnings from some regions, he said this should be curbed.

Freight trains

Sending out a strong message to all the 17 GMs, who are attending the meeting, Mr Prasad said they should make full use of the extended power to provide a rebate of up to 30 per cent in freight transportation in their respective zones.

He also told the officials to put into practice the new system under which wagons fitted with air brakes have been allowed to run up to 4,500 km without any maintenance. "Since this system has not been effectively implemented, the Railways has experienced a shortage of goods trains," he pointed out.