By TIOL News Service

NEW DELHI, DEC 12, 2024: UNION Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, yesterday addressed the Lok Sabha. While answering the questions from the Members of Parliament, Shri Vaishnaw highlighted several significant initiatives and achievements of the Indian Railways. Speaking on a wide range of topics, the Minister detailed efforts to enhance passenger convenience, improve operational efficiency, ensure safety, and promote transparency in recruitment processes. From infrastructural advancements to innovative train services, the Minister emphasized the Railways' commitment to serving the diverse needs of the nation.

While speaking in Parliament, the Union Minister for Railways emphasized the balanced focus on both economically weaker and others by maintaining a ratio of 2:3 for non-AC coaches and 1:3 for AC coaches . To meet the growing demand for general coaches, a special manufacturing program has been launched, aiming to produce 12,000 general coaches . Out of this, 900 have already been added this financial year, with a target of manufacturing 10,000 more, ensuring convenience for unreserved category passengers.

While answering question from Member of Parliament, the Union Minister detailed the extensive preparations for the upcoming Mahakumbh . A total of 13,000 trains have been planned to cater to the anticipated surge in passengers, reflecting a focused effort to serve middle-class and economically weaker families.

The Minister highlighted the operational efficiency of the Railways during the Chhath and Diwali festivals. During these periods, approximately 7,900 special trains transported over one crore, 80 lakhs passengers without major inconveniences, showcasing the commitment to passenger convenience during peak travel seasons.

In response to the question, the Minister said that the induction of the Amrit Bharat train series , designed entirely for non-AC passengers . Equipped with cutting-edge technology similar to Vande Bharat trains , these trains offer a noise and jerk-free travel experience. Plans are underway to produce 50 additional Amrit Bharat trains after the successful operation of the initial fleet over the past ten months.

The Minister highlighted the Namo Bharat train initiative , designed for short-distance city pairs with high-frequency shuttle services . Two Namo Bharat trains are already operational, and after performance evaluations, large-scale production will be initiated. This step aims to replicate European regional train standards for the Indian middle class.

The Union Minister cited the recent Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) examination as a model of transparency and efficiency. With 1.26 crore candidates participating across 211 cities, the examination concluded without a single paper leak or incident . As a result, 1,30,581 young individuals secured employment, setting a benchmark for fair recruitment processes.

Addressing demands for a structured recruitment process, the Minister said the Railways have introduced an annual calendar for exams. Recruitment for 58,642 positions is currently underway, with over 11 lakh candidates recently participating in the loco pilot selection process. He assured Parliament of the Railways' commitment to providing maximum employment opportunities transparently.

The Minister said that all unmanned authorized level crossings are today 100% manned or eliminated by constructing a flyover or underpass . 12,000 flyovers and underpasses have been constructed in these 10 years. This achievement ensures enhanced safety and efficient train operations, marking a significant milestone in railway infrastructure development.