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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