Highlights of Railway Budget 2013-14

Here are the highlights of the Railway budget 2013 -14, presented by minister for railways, PK Bansal, on 26 February 2013.

Thrust
1. Safety; 2. Consolidation; 3. Passenger Amenities; 4. Fiscal Discipline.

Some Achievements/Initiatives

IR enters the one billion tonne Select Club joining Chinese, Russian and US Railways;
IR also joins Select Club running freight trains of more than 10000 tonne load;
'Fuel Adjustment Component' concept to be implemented linking tariffs with movement of fuel prices;
Target of Rs 1000 crore each fixed for Rail Land Development Authority and IR Station Development Corporation to be raised through PPP in 2013-14;
New fund – Debt Service Fund – to be set up to meet committed liabilities of debt servicing for WB and JICA loans for DFC and other future liabilities.

Measures for improving Safety & Security

Making a Corporate Safety Plan for a ten year period (2014-2024).
Elimination of 10797 level crossings during the 12th Plan and no addition of new LCs to the IR system henceforth.
Introduction of Train Protection Warning System on Automatic Signalling Systems.
Rigorous trials of the indigenously developed Train Collision Avoidance System.
Using 60 kg rails, 260 meter long welded rail panels and improved flash butt welding technology.
Introduction of 160/200 kmph Self Propelled Accident Relief Trains.
Induction of crash worthy LHB coaches with anti-climb feature.
Rehabilitation of identified 17 distressed bridges over next one year.
Provision of comprehensive fire and smoke detection systems.
Provision of portable fire extinguishers in Guard-cum-Brake Vans, AC Coaches and Pantry Cars in all trains.
Use of fire retardant furnishing materials in coaches.
Measures initiated to deal with elephant related accidents.
Four companies of women RPF personnel set up and another 8 to be set up to strengthen the security of rail passengers, especially women passengers.
Recruitment to RPF with 10% vacancies reserved for women.

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