NEW DELHI: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw presented his ministry’s ambitious plans for railway upgrades and new coach designs during the Budget Session in Lok Sabha on Thursday.
Replacing Outdated Coaches The Railway Minister emphasized the need to replace the old ICF coaches, which were based on 1950s technology. "We are designing a completely new coach using modern technology, symbolizing Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India)," Vaishnaw stated.
Expanding Rail Services To cater to long-distance travel over 700 to 1,000 kilometers, the Vande Sleeper has been developed. "The first train is already manufactured and currently undergoing testing," he mentioned.
For shorter travel distances within large cities, the Vande Metro has been designed. "This regional train will be launched very soon," Vaishnaw announced.
Appreciation for Railway Employees Expressing gratitude to railway employees, Vaishnaw said, "I would like to thank the 1.2 million railway employees who work tirelessly day and night, through all weather conditions, to operate over 20,000 trains daily and serve the nation."
Addressing Criticism Vaishnaw defended his ministry against opposition criticisms regarding recent train derailments. Responding to opposition jeers, he asserted, "We are hardworking people, not here to make reels."
On loco pilot regulations, he clarified, "The average working and rest times for loco pilots were established in 2005, with amendments in 2016 adding more facilities."
He highlighted improvements for loco pilots, including air-conditioning in all 558 running rooms and over 7,000 loco cabs, contrasting these with previous administrations' shortcomings.
Reaffirming the government's commitment to enhancing railway infrastructure, Vaishnaw announced plans to produce 2,500 general coaches soon, aiming for a total of 10,000 coaches.
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