Railway Budget 2014: Logistics parks, port connectivity via PPP in focus

Union Minister for Railways D V Sadananda Gowda in his maiden Budget presentation on Tuesday spoke about how the government intends to overhaul an economy saddled with slow growth and weak public finances.

Setting up logistic parks, private freight terminals on PPP model, connectivity to ports through PPP, procurement of parcel vans and rakes by private parties for resource augmentation topped the government’s agenda for the logistics fraternity.

On the passenger side, Gowda said the passenger fare revision was a tough decision but it was necessary. He also promised lifts, escalators, foot over bridge (FOB) and battery-operated chairs for differently-abled people at all major stations.

The minister also announced the first bullet train for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route. Extending passenger-friendly services and calling for a revamp in the railway reservation system, he proposed online booking facilities which will give commuters the choice to not only book the train but the coach, berth and seats as well. He also called for to popularise e-ticketing through mobile phones and offering wi-fi services in ‘A1 stations’.

The minister also plans to upgrade the passenger services through the PPP route. He proposed foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Railways, except operations, and sought Cabinet approval for the same.

“I seek Cabinet approval for foreign direct investment in Railways except in railway operations. The government will also look to fund future projects, including high-speed trains, via the public-private-partnership mode. We also need to leverage railway PSU resources. We will also look for ways to monetize Railways land,” he said.

On railway catering services, Gowda proposed to introduce pre-cooked ready- to-eat meals by reputed brands. He said special care will be taken to keep a check on the quality of food served. In case of complaints, severe action will be taken against the vendor, which can even result into cancellation of licence. He also proposed to set up foodcourts at major stations. Emphasising on the hygiene and cleanliness to be maintained at the stations, Gowda said the government will encourage corporate houses to adopt stations and the responsibility to keep the Railway premises clean will be outsourced.

Calling for better rail safety, the minister announced more recruitment in the Railway Protection Force (RPF), including hiring 4,000 women RPF constables. Announcing to introduce system of speedy clearances for new rail tracks, the minister said that Railways need over Rs 40,000 crore for track renewals. He also proposed to take eco-tourism to northeastern states.

High-speed trains, world-class stations and safe journeys were key highlights of the Railway Budget. The Railway Minister allocated Rs 100-crore corpus fund for the high-profile Golden Quadrilateral Rail Network, linking the four metro cities. He even announced a Diamond Quadrilateral network for high-speed trains. The minister further announced restructuring of the Railway board.