Training To Railway Engineers and other Officials
Training To Railway Engineers and other Officials
Railway
Engineers and other officials are trained at the Centralized Training
Institutes, namely, National Academy of Indian Railways (NAIR), Indian Railways
Institute of Civil Engineering (IRICEN), Indian Railways Institute of
Electrical Engineering (IRIEEN), Indian Railways Institute of Signal
Engineering and Telecommunications (IRISET), Indian Railways Institute of
Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (IRIMEE), Indian Railways Institute of
Transport Management (IRITM) and Centralized Training Academy for Railways
Accounts (CTARA). Number of engineers/officials trained are as under:-
|
Institute
|
Officials
|
2012-13
|
2013-14
|
2014-15
|
|
NAIR
|
Gazetted
|
2977
|
2710
|
2910
|
|
Non-Gazetted
|
Nil
|
Nil
|
Nil
|
|
|
IRICEN
|
Gazetted
|
1409
|
1658
|
1178
|
|
Non-Gazetted
|
375
|
223
|
643
|
|
|
IRIEEN
|
Gazetted
|
931
|
1345
|
1595
|
|
Non-Gazetted
|
80
|
82
|
113
|
|
|
IRISET
|
Gazetted
|
671
|
1166
|
841
|
|
Non-Gazetted
|
2705
|
2664
|
2835
|
|
|
IRIMEE
|
Gazetted
|
590
|
769
|
660
|
|
Non-Gazetted
|
110
|
617
|
668
|
|
|
IRITM
|
Gazetted
|
486
|
753
|
606
|
|
Non-Gazetted
|
Nil
|
Nil
|
Nil
|
|
|
CTARA
|
Gazetted
|
223
|
317
|
73
|
|
Non-Gazetted
|
1727
|
836
|
764
|
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj
Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Railway production units
The Railway Production units and their capacity
utilization during the last two years and current year is given below:
|
S.No.
|
Name and location of
Production Unit.
|
Product
|
|
||
|
1.
|
Diesel Locomotive Works
(DLW), Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
|
Diesel Locomotive
|
149.6%
|
||
|
2.
|
Chittaranjan Locomotive-
Works (CLW), Chittaranjan, West Bengal.
|
Electric Locomotive
|
131.1%
|
||
|
3.
|
Integral Coach Factory
(ICF), Perambur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
|
Coaches
|
108.1%
|
||
|
4.
|
Rail Coach Factory (RCF),
Kapurthala, Punjab.
|
Coaches
|
103%
|
||
|
5.
|
Diesel Loco Modernization
Works (DMW), Patiala, Punjab.
|
Locomotive manufacture and
rebuilding
|
196.8%
|
||
|
6.
|
Rail Wheel Factory (RWF),
Bengaluru, Karnataka.
|
Wheels
Axles
|
94%
119.8%
|
||
|
7.
|
Rail Coach Factory (RCF),
Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh.
|
Coaches
|
*
|
||
|
8.
|
Rail Wheel Plant, Bela,
Bihar.
|
Wheels
|
*
|
This information was given by the Minister of State
for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha
today.
****
Use of Vacant Land Under Railways
Approximately a total of 8350 hectares of land has been acquired by
Railways in the last three years and the current year.
Railways
have vacant land and most of the vacant land is in the form of narrow strips
along tracks and is also essential for servicing and maintenance of track and
other infrastructure. The vacant railway land is utilized for execution of
various infrastructural projects for meeting future growth needs of Railways
and include projects like doubling, traffic facilities, Rail Coach and Component
factories, etc. The vacant land, which is not required by Railways for its
immediate operational needs, is leased out to private sector for commercial
development, wherever feasible, in order to mobilize additional financial
resources through Rail Land Development Authority, set up through the Railway
(Amendment) Act, 2005. As such Railways do not have unused land. The details of
vacant land are available since 2011-12 and are as under:
|
Year
|
Vacant land
(in lakh hectare)
|
|
2011-12
|
0.43
|
|
2012-13
|
0.47
|
|
2013-14
|
0.46
|
|
2014-15
|
0.46
|
Requests/proposals regarding grant of permission on
lease/license basis for use of vacant land for public purposes are received
from Local Bodies/State Governments at Divisional offices, Zonal Railway
Headquarters and in the Ministry from time to time. The receipt of such
requests/proposals is a continuous and dynamic process, as such centralized
compendium of the same is not maintained
This information was given by the Minister of State
for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha
today.
****
Pantry Cars and E-Catering Services In Indian Railways
No instructions have been issued for
discontinuation of pantry car facility in trains. However, in order to widen
the range of food options
Contd. available to passengers, E-catering services have been introduced, through Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) in trains without pantry car or Train Side Vending as well as on 45 designated stations from where passengers of originating/passing trains can avail of this facility. IRCTC has tied up with renowned, reputed and established brands in the field of catering services so that the passengers can order good quality and hygienic food of their choice. Further, Janta Khana is also being made available through E-catering services. Efforts are being made to proliferate and popularize this service through print and electronic media so that passengers can order food of their choice conveniently. Based on the feedback received from rail-users, this scheme will be further extended to other railway stations. Steps have been taken /are being taken to ensure that good quality and hygienic food is served to the passengers which include: (i) Imposition of penalties in case of deficiencies detected in services. (ii) Introduction of precooked food (‘ready to eat’ meals) in the range of options available to passengers. (iii) Operation of centralized Catering Service Monitoring Cell (CSMC) (toll free number 1800-111-321) for prompt redressal of passenger grievances relating to the catering activities and real time assistance to travelling public. (iv) Operation of all India Helpline (No.138) for rail-users to lodge complaints/suggestions regarding food and catering services.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
Contd. available to passengers, E-catering services have been introduced, through Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) in trains without pantry car or Train Side Vending as well as on 45 designated stations from where passengers of originating/passing trains can avail of this facility. IRCTC has tied up with renowned, reputed and established brands in the field of catering services so that the passengers can order good quality and hygienic food of their choice. Further, Janta Khana is also being made available through E-catering services. Efforts are being made to proliferate and popularize this service through print and electronic media so that passengers can order food of their choice conveniently. Based on the feedback received from rail-users, this scheme will be further extended to other railway stations. Steps have been taken /are being taken to ensure that good quality and hygienic food is served to the passengers which include: (i) Imposition of penalties in case of deficiencies detected in services. (ii) Introduction of precooked food (‘ready to eat’ meals) in the range of options available to passengers. (iii) Operation of centralized Catering Service Monitoring Cell (CSMC) (toll free number 1800-111-321) for prompt redressal of passenger grievances relating to the catering activities and real time assistance to travelling public. (iv) Operation of all India Helpline (No.138) for rail-users to lodge complaints/suggestions regarding food and catering services.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
FDI in Railway Sector
Ministry of Railways issued Sectoral guidelines in
November, 2014 for Domestic/Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in rail sector in
the following identified areas: (i) Suburban corridors through Public Private
Partnership (PPP); (ii) High speed train projects; (iii) Dedicated freight
lines; (iv) Rolling stock including trains sets and locomotive/coaches
manufacturing
and maintenance facilities; (v) Railway electrification; (vi) Signaling system; (vii) Freight terminals; (viii) Passenger terminals; (ix) Testing facilities and laboratories; (x) Non- Conventional Sources of Energy; (xi) Railway Technical Training Institutes; (xii) Concessioning of standalone passenger corridors (branch lines, hill railways etc.); (xiii) Mechanized Laundry; (xiv) Rolling stock procurement; (xv) Bio-toilets; (xvi) Technological solutions for manned and unmanned level crossings; (xvii) Technological solutions to improve Safety and reduce accidents.
(c): The FDI policy aims at benefiting domestic industries through infusion of foreign equity and technology.
(d): It is not possible to anticipate the extent of FDI inflows. However, agreements have been signed for setting up of two locomotive factories at Madhepura (Electric) and Marhowra (Diesel) costing about ₹ 2600 crore entailing FDI inflow in these activities.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
and maintenance facilities; (v) Railway electrification; (vi) Signaling system; (vii) Freight terminals; (viii) Passenger terminals; (ix) Testing facilities and laboratories; (x) Non- Conventional Sources of Energy; (xi) Railway Technical Training Institutes; (xii) Concessioning of standalone passenger corridors (branch lines, hill railways etc.); (xiii) Mechanized Laundry; (xiv) Rolling stock procurement; (xv) Bio-toilets; (xvi) Technological solutions for manned and unmanned level crossings; (xvii) Technological solutions to improve Safety and reduce accidents.
(c): The FDI policy aims at benefiting domestic industries through infusion of foreign equity and technology.
(d): It is not possible to anticipate the extent of FDI inflows. However, agreements have been signed for setting up of two locomotive factories at Madhepura (Electric) and Marhowra (Diesel) costing about ₹ 2600 crore entailing FDI inflow in these activities.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Travel Facilities to Foreign Tourists by Indian Railways
With a view to facilitate travel of foreign tourists,
following facilities have been provided:-
(i) Advance Reservation Period of 360 days has been provided for foreign tourists.
(ii) Foreign Tourist Quota is earmarked in identified trains based on demand pattern. During the financial year 2014-15, approximately 7.06 lakh berths/seats were earmarked under this quota to facilitate these passengers. The quota so earmarked is reviewed on periodical basis based on utilisation and adjustments are made wherever required .
(iii) Separate facilitation centers are operating at several tourist destinations to provide facilities to foreign tourists.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
(i) Advance Reservation Period of 360 days has been provided for foreign tourists.
(ii) Foreign Tourist Quota is earmarked in identified trains based on demand pattern. During the financial year 2014-15, approximately 7.06 lakh berths/seats were earmarked under this quota to facilitate these passengers. The quota so earmarked is reviewed on periodical basis based on utilisation and adjustments are made wherever required .
(iii) Separate facilitation centers are operating at several tourist destinations to provide facilities to foreign tourists.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Suresh Prabhu Inaugurates Two-Day 11th UIC Global Security Congress In New
Delhi Today
The 11th UIC Global Security Congress being
organized by the Security Directorate of Indian Railways in collaboration with
International Union of Railways (UIC), (headquartered in Paris) began here
today. The two-day conference is being attended by Security Chiefs of the
Railway Systems of various countries apart from representatives of UIC, Indian
Railways, police and security agencies of India. The Minister of Railways Sh.
Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu was the Chief Guest at the inaugural session of the
conference. Shri. A.K. Mital, Chairman of Indian Railways addressed the
inaugural session and Dr. P.K.Mishra, Addl. Principal Secretary to Prime
Minister of India delivered the key note address. Mr. Jean-Pierre Loubinoux,
Director-General of the International Union of Railways (UIC) and delegates of
member countries were among those who attended the conference. Dy. Chairman Mr.
Jerzy Wisniewski, UIC, also expressed his views at the inaugural session.
Members of the Board of Indian Railways were also present. Director General
Railway Protection Force of Indian Railways who is the present chief of UIC
Security Platform also spoke on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of Railways Shri Suresh Prabhu said that safety and security are important aspect for railway operations. He pointed out that while safety is in-built into the Railway system the security aspects are quite complex and depend on many external factors. Referring to the vulnerability of Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhu said that Railways is always a soft target by the anti-social elements. He said that the problem of terror attack is global. There are ideological and motivation issues associated with the problem. We need to take steps to address such problems and find global solutions through intelligence sharing and mutual collaborations. He said that training of personnel and sharing of best practices will be very effective in addressing this problem and this global collaborative effort will be very helpful in this. Shri Suresh Prabhu said that the Indian Railways is committed to provide security to its passengers in collaborations with the security set up with the State Governments. He also pointed out that the security apparatus suitable for Indian conditions should not only be effective but should also be inexpensive and he called upon experts to discuss this.
In his address, Chairman Railway Board Shri A. K. Mital said that as a response to the threat perception and risk assessments, Indian Railways has put in place an Integrated Security System (ISS) for security management at major identified stations. In addition, we have launched intensive public awareness campaigns to drive home the message of the threat from strange objects or strange behavior in railway premises. Regular coordination meetings are held between our security establishment with state police and central intelligence agencies. Indian Railways have developed a system of security escorting of trains by sharing the responsibility among RPF and state police. The themes for the UIC World Security Congress are designed to share ideas so that the delegates take away the learning and implement it in their systems.
In his key note address, Dr. P.K. Mishra, Addl. Principal Secretary to Prime Minister of India focussed on Crisis Management and Mitigation of Disasters Involving Railways. He talked about four important international programme on the subject namely (i) Yokohama 1994- Plan of Action for a Safer World (ii) Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-Buildng Resilience of Nations and Communities (iii) Sendai Framework of Action 2015- Active Disaster Risk Reduction. Mr. Mishra emphasised on four priority areas namely Understanding disaster risk, strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk, Investing in risk reduction for resilience, Enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response and to Build Back Better. In the context of Indian Railways Shri Mishra pointed out need to focus on pre-disaster prevention and mitigation rather than on Post-disaster relief and Multi-stakeholder approach.
In his welcome speech, Director General Railway Protection Force Shri Rajiva Ranjan Verma said that UIC security platform seeks best practices & developing suitable modules & infrastructure, security & technical innovations. He said that this particular UIC Congress is focusing on security of rail systems, operations, etc. He assured that we must work for ‘Smart cities, smart Railway system’ - user-friendly and multi-dimensional railway system.
This year, the conference with the title agenda, “Security of Rail Systems, Operations and Business Activities”, is focusing on:-
• Asia-pacific regional security issues and consequent challenges to railway systems.
• Growing complexity of railway system and the importance of the security in achieving short, medium and long term goals.
• Resource constraints and burden of expectations on security agencies, especially in the context of South Asia.
• Preparing for crisis management and mitigation of consequences of incidents in railways.
• Passenger security issues: Problems and Solutions.
• Freight Security issues: Problems and Solutions.
Presentations on topics/ factors affecting rail security in India, such as, ‘fidayeen’ attack, crime trends on Indian Railways, security of women passengers, child trafficking, complexities of rail security management, crisis management, crowd management, VIP security, cyber terrorism against railways, security of freight, etc, are to be presented during the Conference by foreign and domestic domain experts. A panel discussion on ‘International Cooperation in developing best practices, implementation of modern technology and training of personnel’ is also on the agenda.
BACKGROUNDER : -
International Union of Railways (UIC) is the professional association in existence from 1922, representing the railway sector and promoting rail transport worldwide. There are 06 UIC regional assemblies for Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Europe and Middle-East. UIC is on a mission to promote interoperability and standardization of rail transport, increase cooperation and sharing of best practices, support members in new business and new areas of activities, and to propose improved technical and environmental performance of rail transport, improve competitiveness and reduce costs.
On 8 December 2009, the UIC Executive Board and General Assembly decided to additionally focus on 5 key areas to be developed in the interest of the worldwide railway community namely Environment, Safety and Security, Signalling, Freight / Freight Corridors and Standardization.
The security platform was created by the Executive Board of UIC in June-2006 and was restructured in 2008 at Global Level. This security platform is responsible for organizing such international events from time to time on the issues defending common interest of UIC members in the security field, promoting the exchange of information and experiences among the Security Directors of UIC members, proposed common interest, index projects at Global and regional level as dictated by members’ requirements or external event.
The chair of security platform is held by security chiefs of railways of member countries by rotation. Shri Rajiva Ranjan Verma, Director General/Railway Protection Force (RPF) is the present Chief of UIC security platform. The last edition of the UIC Global Security Congress was organized in Lisbon, Portugal in the year 2014. It focused on the concept of “comprehensive rail system protection”. In India, two earlier security events were organized by Indian Railways (RPF) in collaboration with UIC in Delhi & Mumbai in the year 2006 & 2010. In Delhi, the focus was on growing challenges of Terrorism in global railways, while in Mumbai it focused on security challenges and high speed developments.
Threat perceptions in Railway systems are dependent on the dynamics of the social systems in which they are embedded. Consequently, strategies to deal with security threats are also required to be in tune with such dynamics to protect the Railway systems. Traditional methods and practices and conventional infrastructure are required to be modified according to modern developments brought about by technological advancement and the evolving social order. Growing complexities demand a suitable security model to enable the Railway systems to pursue their short, medium and long term growth initiatives. Mere intent is not enough and viable solutions are necessary to meet this requirement.
In a global scenario where criminal elements exploit the advantages of networking to devise newer ways and means of attack, it is highly imperative that positive forces also come together to face such challengers. International Union of Railways (UIC) headquartered at Paris, being an international body is well suited to facilitate its members by providing a platform to share ideas and best practices.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of Railways Shri Suresh Prabhu said that safety and security are important aspect for railway operations. He pointed out that while safety is in-built into the Railway system the security aspects are quite complex and depend on many external factors. Referring to the vulnerability of Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhu said that Railways is always a soft target by the anti-social elements. He said that the problem of terror attack is global. There are ideological and motivation issues associated with the problem. We need to take steps to address such problems and find global solutions through intelligence sharing and mutual collaborations. He said that training of personnel and sharing of best practices will be very effective in addressing this problem and this global collaborative effort will be very helpful in this. Shri Suresh Prabhu said that the Indian Railways is committed to provide security to its passengers in collaborations with the security set up with the State Governments. He also pointed out that the security apparatus suitable for Indian conditions should not only be effective but should also be inexpensive and he called upon experts to discuss this.
In his address, Chairman Railway Board Shri A. K. Mital said that as a response to the threat perception and risk assessments, Indian Railways has put in place an Integrated Security System (ISS) for security management at major identified stations. In addition, we have launched intensive public awareness campaigns to drive home the message of the threat from strange objects or strange behavior in railway premises. Regular coordination meetings are held between our security establishment with state police and central intelligence agencies. Indian Railways have developed a system of security escorting of trains by sharing the responsibility among RPF and state police. The themes for the UIC World Security Congress are designed to share ideas so that the delegates take away the learning and implement it in their systems.
In his key note address, Dr. P.K. Mishra, Addl. Principal Secretary to Prime Minister of India focussed on Crisis Management and Mitigation of Disasters Involving Railways. He talked about four important international programme on the subject namely (i) Yokohama 1994- Plan of Action for a Safer World (ii) Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-Buildng Resilience of Nations and Communities (iii) Sendai Framework of Action 2015- Active Disaster Risk Reduction. Mr. Mishra emphasised on four priority areas namely Understanding disaster risk, strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk, Investing in risk reduction for resilience, Enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response and to Build Back Better. In the context of Indian Railways Shri Mishra pointed out need to focus on pre-disaster prevention and mitigation rather than on Post-disaster relief and Multi-stakeholder approach.
In his welcome speech, Director General Railway Protection Force Shri Rajiva Ranjan Verma said that UIC security platform seeks best practices & developing suitable modules & infrastructure, security & technical innovations. He said that this particular UIC Congress is focusing on security of rail systems, operations, etc. He assured that we must work for ‘Smart cities, smart Railway system’ - user-friendly and multi-dimensional railway system.
This year, the conference with the title agenda, “Security of Rail Systems, Operations and Business Activities”, is focusing on:-
• Asia-pacific regional security issues and consequent challenges to railway systems.
• Growing complexity of railway system and the importance of the security in achieving short, medium and long term goals.
• Resource constraints and burden of expectations on security agencies, especially in the context of South Asia.
• Preparing for crisis management and mitigation of consequences of incidents in railways.
• Passenger security issues: Problems and Solutions.
• Freight Security issues: Problems and Solutions.
Presentations on topics/ factors affecting rail security in India, such as, ‘fidayeen’ attack, crime trends on Indian Railways, security of women passengers, child trafficking, complexities of rail security management, crisis management, crowd management, VIP security, cyber terrorism against railways, security of freight, etc, are to be presented during the Conference by foreign and domestic domain experts. A panel discussion on ‘International Cooperation in developing best practices, implementation of modern technology and training of personnel’ is also on the agenda.
BACKGROUNDER : -
International Union of Railways (UIC) is the professional association in existence from 1922, representing the railway sector and promoting rail transport worldwide. There are 06 UIC regional assemblies for Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Europe and Middle-East. UIC is on a mission to promote interoperability and standardization of rail transport, increase cooperation and sharing of best practices, support members in new business and new areas of activities, and to propose improved technical and environmental performance of rail transport, improve competitiveness and reduce costs.
On 8 December 2009, the UIC Executive Board and General Assembly decided to additionally focus on 5 key areas to be developed in the interest of the worldwide railway community namely Environment, Safety and Security, Signalling, Freight / Freight Corridors and Standardization.
The security platform was created by the Executive Board of UIC in June-2006 and was restructured in 2008 at Global Level. This security platform is responsible for organizing such international events from time to time on the issues defending common interest of UIC members in the security field, promoting the exchange of information and experiences among the Security Directors of UIC members, proposed common interest, index projects at Global and regional level as dictated by members’ requirements or external event.
The chair of security platform is held by security chiefs of railways of member countries by rotation. Shri Rajiva Ranjan Verma, Director General/Railway Protection Force (RPF) is the present Chief of UIC security platform. The last edition of the UIC Global Security Congress was organized in Lisbon, Portugal in the year 2014. It focused on the concept of “comprehensive rail system protection”. In India, two earlier security events were organized by Indian Railways (RPF) in collaboration with UIC in Delhi & Mumbai in the year 2006 & 2010. In Delhi, the focus was on growing challenges of Terrorism in global railways, while in Mumbai it focused on security challenges and high speed developments.
Threat perceptions in Railway systems are dependent on the dynamics of the social systems in which they are embedded. Consequently, strategies to deal with security threats are also required to be in tune with such dynamics to protect the Railway systems. Traditional methods and practices and conventional infrastructure are required to be modified according to modern developments brought about by technological advancement and the evolving social order. Growing complexities demand a suitable security model to enable the Railway systems to pursue their short, medium and long term growth initiatives. Mere intent is not enough and viable solutions are necessary to meet this requirement.
In a global scenario where criminal elements exploit the advantages of networking to devise newer ways and means of attack, it is highly imperative that positive forces also come together to face such challengers. International Union of Railways (UIC) headquartered at Paris, being an international body is well suited to facilitate its members by providing a platform to share ideas and best practices.
****
Improvement of Railway Connectivity In Himalayan States including
North-Eastern Region
It is Indian Railways’ endeavor to improve railway
connectivity in the Himalayan States including States in the North Eastern
Region. Toward this end, 20 New Lines, 4 Gauge Conversion and 9 Doubling
projects having total length of 3682 km costing 91,756 Crores have been taken
up falling fully/partly in these States. As the railway projects straddle
across one or more States, the details are not maintained State-wise. However,
following important rail connectivity projects/sections having a total length
of about 1000 km have been commissioned in these States in last 5 years in this
region:-
1. Udhampur-Katra and Qazigund-Banihal sections of Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Project.
2. Harmuti-Naharlagun (Itanagar) New line.
3. Rangya-Rangapara-Murkongselek Gauge Conversion project including Balipara-Bhalukpong.
4. Lumding-Silchar sections of Lumding-Silchar-Kumarghat Gauge Conversion project.
5. Dudhnoi-Mendipathar (Meghalaya) new line.
6. Fakiragram-Dhubri and Golakganj-Gauripur sections of New Jalpaiguri-Siliguri-New Bongaigaon Guage Conversion project.
7. New Guwahati-Digaru Doubling.
8. Bareilly-Lalkuan section of Kanpur-Kasganj-Bareilly & Bareilly-Lalkuan Gauge Conversion project.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
1. Udhampur-Katra and Qazigund-Banihal sections of Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Project.
2. Harmuti-Naharlagun (Itanagar) New line.
3. Rangya-Rangapara-Murkongselek Gauge Conversion project including Balipara-Bhalukpong.
4. Lumding-Silchar sections of Lumding-Silchar-Kumarghat Gauge Conversion project.
5. Dudhnoi-Mendipathar (Meghalaya) new line.
6. Fakiragram-Dhubri and Golakganj-Gauripur sections of New Jalpaiguri-Siliguri-New Bongaigaon Guage Conversion project.
7. New Guwahati-Digaru Doubling.
8. Bareilly-Lalkuan section of Kanpur-Kasganj-Bareilly & Bareilly-Lalkuan Gauge Conversion project.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Steps taken to provide security to Railway passengers
Prevention of crime, registration of cases and
maintenance of law and order over station premises and trains is the statutory
responsibility of States, which is being discharged by them through Government
Railway Police (GRP) and 50% cost of GRPs is born by Railways. The Railway
Protection Force (RPF) is supplementing efforts of GRPs to ensure security at
Railway stations, which includes strengthening and upgradation of security
infrastructure at sensitive stations, viz., installation of Close Circuit Television
(CCTV) Cameras and metal detectors. CCTV cameras have been provided at 311
railway stations for round the clock surveillance. In addition, about 750 Door
Frame Metal Detectors (DFMDs) have also been installed by zonal railways at
sensitive stations over Indian Railways.
Besides, the following steps are being taken by the Railways to provide security at Railway Stations:-
1. RPF holds regular coordination meetings with State Police at all levels to ensure proper registration and investigation of crime by Government Railway Police.
2. RPF Crime prevention and detection squads and special teams are formed to keep vigil on the criminals in trains/ stations to prevent crime.
3. Joint drives by RPF/GRP and Commercial Department are conducted from time to time against the unauthorized entry of passengers in trains and at railway premises.
4. Passenger outreach programmes have been launched including announcement through loudhailers / PA system, pasting of stickers and providing Security Help Line Number 182 of RPF Security Control Room for security related assistance.
Total 202 Railway stations have been identified for installation of Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras etc. under Integrated Security System (ISS) over Indian Railways, out of which so far, CCTV cameras have been installed over 88 stations under ISS and at 114 stations installation of CCTVs is under process.
(As many as 33423 RPF personnel are deployed at Railway Stations daily. The zone-wise detail is appended. In addition on an average 2000 trains are escorted by RPF personnel daily. The escorts in long distance trains run in continuity in batches, covering the whole distance during the nights. Further RPSF is also deployed to strengthen security in vulnerable areas.
Government Railway Police (GRP) is a wing of State Police and functions within respective State boundaries. At present, about 38,000 GRP personnel are deployed by different States over Indian Railways. They are at stations as well as they escort 2200 nos. of trains daily.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
Besides, the following steps are being taken by the Railways to provide security at Railway Stations:-
1. RPF holds regular coordination meetings with State Police at all levels to ensure proper registration and investigation of crime by Government Railway Police.
2. RPF Crime prevention and detection squads and special teams are formed to keep vigil on the criminals in trains/ stations to prevent crime.
3. Joint drives by RPF/GRP and Commercial Department are conducted from time to time against the unauthorized entry of passengers in trains and at railway premises.
4. Passenger outreach programmes have been launched including announcement through loudhailers / PA system, pasting of stickers and providing Security Help Line Number 182 of RPF Security Control Room for security related assistance.
Total 202 Railway stations have been identified for installation of Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras etc. under Integrated Security System (ISS) over Indian Railways, out of which so far, CCTV cameras have been installed over 88 stations under ISS and at 114 stations installation of CCTVs is under process.
(As many as 33423 RPF personnel are deployed at Railway Stations daily. The zone-wise detail is appended. In addition on an average 2000 trains are escorted by RPF personnel daily. The escorts in long distance trains run in continuity in batches, covering the whole distance during the nights. Further RPSF is also deployed to strengthen security in vulnerable areas.
Government Railway Police (GRP) is a wing of State Police and functions within respective State boundaries. At present, about 38,000 GRP personnel are deployed by different States over Indian Railways. They are at stations as well as they escort 2200 nos. of trains daily.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Rain water harvesting facilities in Railways
Railways have taken up the work of installing rain
water harvesting facilities wherever possible from techno-economic
considerations i.e. intensity of rain fall, level of water table, soil type,
salinity of ground water etc. Railway has already installed rain water
harvesting facilities at 2060 locations and for 130 more locations for
installation of rain water harvesting facilities have been approved. From
techno-economic consideration it was not found feasible to install rain water
harvesting facilities at terminals and suburban stations of Mumbai.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
WI – FI Service Facility to Railway Passengers
Wi-Fi facility with free access to rail passengers
for first 30 minutes in a day is proposed to be provided at all A1 (75), A
(332) and B(302) i.e. total 709 railways stations. For period after 30 minutes
the service will be available on payment.
Initially the Wi-Fi service is proposed to be provided at 400 nos. of A1 and A category stations. For B category stations Request For Proposal (RFP) issued and date of opening is 23.12.2015.
Initially Wi-Fi project shall be undertaken in phases to cover all A1 and A category stations.
Non-Suburban stations with an annual passenger earning of more than ` 60 crores are categorised as A1 stations. Non-Suburban stations with an annual passenger earnings of ` 8 crores and upto ` 60 crores are categorised as A stations.
RailTel Corporation of India Limited (a Public Sector Undertaking of Ministry of Railways) has entered into a collaboration with M/s. Mahataa Information India Private Limited (an Indian Subsidiary of Google Inc.) for the present, no direct investment has been made so far. The proposed investment will come in the form of providing technology, design and equipments required for providing Wi-Fi service.
Work of providing of Wi-Fi service within the scope of the collaboration is in progress at 100 category A1 and A stations, after which work at balance 300 category A1 and A stations shall be taken up. For B category stations Request For Proposal (RFP) issued and date of opening is 23.12.2015
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
Initially the Wi-Fi service is proposed to be provided at 400 nos. of A1 and A category stations. For B category stations Request For Proposal (RFP) issued and date of opening is 23.12.2015.
Initially Wi-Fi project shall be undertaken in phases to cover all A1 and A category stations.
Non-Suburban stations with an annual passenger earning of more than ` 60 crores are categorised as A1 stations. Non-Suburban stations with an annual passenger earnings of ` 8 crores and upto ` 60 crores are categorised as A stations.
RailTel Corporation of India Limited (a Public Sector Undertaking of Ministry of Railways) has entered into a collaboration with M/s. Mahataa Information India Private Limited (an Indian Subsidiary of Google Inc.) for the present, no direct investment has been made so far. The proposed investment will come in the form of providing technology, design and equipments required for providing Wi-Fi service.
Work of providing of Wi-Fi service within the scope of the collaboration is in progress at 100 category A1 and A stations, after which work at balance 300 category A1 and A stations shall be taken up. For B category stations Request For Proposal (RFP) issued and date of opening is 23.12.2015
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Suvidha Trains for Railway Commuters and Measures to Improve Punctuality
Indian Railways ran 333 Suvidha trains during
01.07.2015 to 30.11.2015 on various routes. The average punctuality, (right
time arrival at destination) of these trains during the above period was 60%.
Like other Mail/Express trains, the reasons for loss of punctuality of some of Suvidha trains have been related to Railways internal working as well as external factors of which Railways are not in control of.
Other than asset failures, various constraints /difficulties which resulted in late running of these trains were line capacity constraints on account of increasing passenger and freight traffic, accidents, planned blocks for executing capacity enhancement works & construction of low height subways, ROBs, RUBs, etc., adverse weather conditions (fog, rains, breaches), intermittent natural calamities such as floods, cyclones, heavy rains, heavy road traffic at level crossing gates across the Indian Railways network, multi faceted law and order problems, including public agitations and bandh calls in left wing extremism affected and other areas, miscreant activities such as theft of Railway assets, mid-section run over cases involving cattle and humans, etc.
Railways have initiated various measures aimed at improving punctuality of trains over Indian Railways network, including Suvidha trains by sensitization of staff involved in train operations, controlling asset failures and their down-time, prioritization of preventive maintenance of assets etc. State Governments are being pursued for more effective resolution of law and order related problems.
To ease congestion, high priority is also being accorded to making resources available for speedy execution of capacity augmentation works on Railways. The consequent de-congestion of highly saturated routes will enhance systemic capability to run trains more punctually
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
Like other Mail/Express trains, the reasons for loss of punctuality of some of Suvidha trains have been related to Railways internal working as well as external factors of which Railways are not in control of.
Other than asset failures, various constraints /difficulties which resulted in late running of these trains were line capacity constraints on account of increasing passenger and freight traffic, accidents, planned blocks for executing capacity enhancement works & construction of low height subways, ROBs, RUBs, etc., adverse weather conditions (fog, rains, breaches), intermittent natural calamities such as floods, cyclones, heavy rains, heavy road traffic at level crossing gates across the Indian Railways network, multi faceted law and order problems, including public agitations and bandh calls in left wing extremism affected and other areas, miscreant activities such as theft of Railway assets, mid-section run over cases involving cattle and humans, etc.
Railways have initiated various measures aimed at improving punctuality of trains over Indian Railways network, including Suvidha trains by sensitization of staff involved in train operations, controlling asset failures and their down-time, prioritization of preventive maintenance of assets etc. State Governments are being pursued for more effective resolution of law and order related problems.
To ease congestion, high priority is also being accorded to making resources available for speedy execution of capacity augmentation works on Railways. The consequent de-congestion of highly saturated routes will enhance systemic capability to run trains more punctually
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Transfer Policy of Railway Officials
A Comprehensive Transfer Policy for Railway
Officers have been formulated and issued on 31.08.2015. The Policy lays down a
general Policy framework for transfer and reiterates various existing rules and
guidelines with regard to posting under Spouse rules, competence of General
Managers to make rules in respect of Non-Gazetted staff under their control,
transfer of RPF/RPSF personnel and special consideration for care of disabled
children etc. It also prescribes minimum and maximum tenures on a job and at a
place as also guidelines regarding timing of transfers and relieving of
officers.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Development of Railway Stations
Station development on Indian Railways is a
continuous exercise. Works pertaining to modernization/upgradation of station
are undertaken depending upon identified need, availability of funds, etc.
Accordingly, New Delhi station has been developed in various phases.
With a view to make dedicated efforts towards station development, Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation Ltd. (IRSDC) was set up in 2012 and has been entrusted with redevelopment of seven stations viz., Anand Vihar, Bijwasan, Chandigarh, Habibganj (Bhopal), Shivaji Nagar (Pune), Surat, SAS Nagar (Mohali). In addition, one station viz., Gandhinagar has been entrusted to Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) for redevelopment.
Further, to expand the scope of station redevelopment in a big way, it has been decided to offer ‘A-1’ and ‘A’ category stations (about 400 stations) which are generally located in metros, major cities, pilgrimage centres & important tourist destinations, for redevelopment on ‘as is where is’ basis by inviting open bids from interested parties with their designs and business ideas.
Station Redevelopment projects are complex in nature which require detailed techno-economic feasibility studies and statutory clearances from local bodies. Though Railways have been making sustained efforts towards expediting various issues, it is, however, not possible to provide time limit at this stage for completion of these projects.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
With a view to make dedicated efforts towards station development, Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation Ltd. (IRSDC) was set up in 2012 and has been entrusted with redevelopment of seven stations viz., Anand Vihar, Bijwasan, Chandigarh, Habibganj (Bhopal), Shivaji Nagar (Pune), Surat, SAS Nagar (Mohali). In addition, one station viz., Gandhinagar has been entrusted to Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) for redevelopment.
Further, to expand the scope of station redevelopment in a big way, it has been decided to offer ‘A-1’ and ‘A’ category stations (about 400 stations) which are generally located in metros, major cities, pilgrimage centres & important tourist destinations, for redevelopment on ‘as is where is’ basis by inviting open bids from interested parties with their designs and business ideas.
Station Redevelopment projects are complex in nature which require detailed techno-economic feasibility studies and statutory clearances from local bodies. Though Railways have been making sustained efforts towards expediting various issues, it is, however, not possible to provide time limit at this stage for completion of these projects.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Platform Shelter and Extension of Platforms in Indian Railways
Provision/augmentation of passenger amenities
including platform shelter and extension of platforms to accommodate longest
stopping train is a continuous and ongoing process. At present, there are about
8495 railway stations on Indian Railways which have been categorized into seven
categories viz. A1, A, B, C, D, E & F depending upon annual passenger
earning of stations. As per norms of Minimum Essential Amenities ‘F’ category
(Halt) stations do not qualify for provision of platform shelter. Presently,
about 5780 stations have been provided with platform shelters. Length of the
platform at the station is generally provided to accommodate the longest train
stopping at that station. Out of 5780 stations there are about 1640 stations
which have been provided with platform shelters and can accommodate 20-22 coach
trains
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Amenities to Differently Abled Passengers By Railways
Provision/augmentation of amenities at stations,
including those for differently abled passengers is a continuous process. In
order to provide better accessibility to differently abled passengers, short
term facilities as detailed below have been planned at all stations including
stations in Andhra Pradesh and Telengana:
• Standard ramp for barrier free entry,
• Earmarking at least two parking lots,
• Non-slippery walk-way from parking lot to building,
• Signages of appropriate visibility,
• At least one toilet (on the ground floor),
• At least one drinking water tap suitable for use by differently-abled persons,
• ‘May I help you’ Booth
In addition, long term facilities as detailed below have been planned at ‘A1’, ‘A’ & ‘B’ category stations including stations in Andhra Pradesh and Telengana:
• Provision of facility for inter-platform transfer
• Engraving on edges of platform
Presently, all identified short term & long term facilities have been provided at about 790 stations over Indian Railways.
The expenditure on works pertaining to provision of amenities at stations for differently-abled passengers are generally funded under Plan Head – ‘Passenger Amenities’. Allocation of `1748.50 Crores have been made under this Plan Head for the current financial year.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
• Standard ramp for barrier free entry,
• Earmarking at least two parking lots,
• Non-slippery walk-way from parking lot to building,
• Signages of appropriate visibility,
• At least one toilet (on the ground floor),
• At least one drinking water tap suitable for use by differently-abled persons,
• ‘May I help you’ Booth
In addition, long term facilities as detailed below have been planned at ‘A1’, ‘A’ & ‘B’ category stations including stations in Andhra Pradesh and Telengana:
• Provision of facility for inter-platform transfer
• Engraving on edges of platform
Presently, all identified short term & long term facilities have been provided at about 790 stations over Indian Railways.
The expenditure on works pertaining to provision of amenities at stations for differently-abled passengers are generally funded under Plan Head – ‘Passenger Amenities’. Allocation of `1748.50 Crores have been made under this Plan Head for the current financial year.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Security of Railway Passengers including Women Passengers
The cases of crime against women passengers
including sexual harassment against women passengers are reported to,
registered and investigated by Government Railway Police (GRP) of the concerned
State Government. The offenders are arrested and prosecuted by the GRP.
Policing on Railways is a State subject and prevention of crime, registration of cases and their investigation in Railway premises as well as on running trains is, therefore, the statutory responsibility of the State Governments, which they discharge through Government Railway Police (GRP). Railway Protection Force (RPF) supplements the efforts of Government Railway Police by deploying its staff for escorting of important trains in affected areas and access control duties at important and sensitive stations. Besides, the following steps are being taken by the Railways to provide maximum security to passengers-
1. An Integrated Security System consisting of surveillance of vulnerable stations through Close Circuit Television Camera Network, Access Control and Anti-Sabotage Checks has been finalized to improve surveillance mechanism over 202 sensitive railway stations.
2. On vulnerable and identified routes/ sections, 2000 trains (on an average) are escorted by Railway Protection Force daily, in addition to 2200 trains escorted by Government Railway Police of different States daily.
3. RPF holds regular coordination meetings with State Police at all levels to ensure proper registration and investigation of crime by Government Railway Police.
4. RPF Crime prevention and detection squads and special teams are formed to keep vigil on the criminals in trains/ stations to prevent crime.
5. Joint drives by RPF/GRP and Commercial Department are conducted from time to time against the unauthorized entry of passengers in trains and railway premises.
6. Mass media programmes are being launched by zonal railways to create awareness regarding crime against women passengers through electronic and print media.
7. Passenger outreach programmes have been launched including announcement through loudhailers / PA system as well as pasting of stickers providing the Security Help Line Number 182 of RPF Security Control Room for security related assistance.
8. All the ladies special trains running Metropolitan cities are being escorted by lady RPF constable.
9. The ladies compartments of local trains in Metropolitan cities are being escorted by RPF and GRP during peak/non peak hours. Staff deployment is made during late night and early morning local trains to ensure better security to the lady passengers.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
Policing on Railways is a State subject and prevention of crime, registration of cases and their investigation in Railway premises as well as on running trains is, therefore, the statutory responsibility of the State Governments, which they discharge through Government Railway Police (GRP). Railway Protection Force (RPF) supplements the efforts of Government Railway Police by deploying its staff for escorting of important trains in affected areas and access control duties at important and sensitive stations. Besides, the following steps are being taken by the Railways to provide maximum security to passengers-
1. An Integrated Security System consisting of surveillance of vulnerable stations through Close Circuit Television Camera Network, Access Control and Anti-Sabotage Checks has been finalized to improve surveillance mechanism over 202 sensitive railway stations.
2. On vulnerable and identified routes/ sections, 2000 trains (on an average) are escorted by Railway Protection Force daily, in addition to 2200 trains escorted by Government Railway Police of different States daily.
3. RPF holds regular coordination meetings with State Police at all levels to ensure proper registration and investigation of crime by Government Railway Police.
4. RPF Crime prevention and detection squads and special teams are formed to keep vigil on the criminals in trains/ stations to prevent crime.
5. Joint drives by RPF/GRP and Commercial Department are conducted from time to time against the unauthorized entry of passengers in trains and railway premises.
6. Mass media programmes are being launched by zonal railways to create awareness regarding crime against women passengers through electronic and print media.
7. Passenger outreach programmes have been launched including announcement through loudhailers / PA system as well as pasting of stickers providing the Security Help Line Number 182 of RPF Security Control Room for security related assistance.
8. All the ladies special trains running Metropolitan cities are being escorted by lady RPF constable.
9. The ladies compartments of local trains in Metropolitan cities are being escorted by RPF and GRP during peak/non peak hours. Staff deployment is made during late night and early morning local trains to ensure better security to the lady passengers.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Measures Taken By Railways To Optimize Operating Ratio
Railways Measures Towards Technology Upgradation and Development Rail Transport In The country
Railways Measures Towards Technology Upgradation and Development Rail Transport In The country
The Operating Ratio of the Indian Railways for
2012-13, 2013-14 and 2014-15 was 90.2%, 93.6% and 91.3%(Provisional)
respectively. Budget Estimates 2015-16 envisage an Operating Ratio of 88.5%.
Improvement in Operating Ratio necessitates a progressively higher growth rate in Traffic Earnings vis-a-vis the Working Expenses. It is a continuous endeavour of the Railways to increase revenues and control expenditure. Steps taken to maximize the traffic earnings, inter-alia, include periodic rationalization of fare and freight tariff, effective marketing strategies to capture more and more traffic, creation of additional capacity and optimum utilization of the existing rail infrastructure, improved throughput by steps to increase productivity and efficiency, improvement of passenger interface etc. To contain expenditure, Railways have made efforts through diverse means including strict economy and austerity measures, improved man-power planning, better asset utilization and inventory management, optimizing fuel consumption etc.
Technological upgradation and the funding arrangement for the same on Indian Railways has been highlighted by different expert committees.
Technological upgradation on the Railways is an on-going process and has to match the topographical and socio-economic conditions of the country and specific need and requirement of Railways. Efforts to garner more resources to meet these requirements is also a continuous and progressive endeavour. Towards technology upgradation and development of rail transport in the country, Railways have already initiated the following:
• Upgradation of sleepers from wooden and metal to concrete sleepers.
• Use of fan shaped turnouts on concrete sleepers in place of wooden & metal sleepers.
• Use of heavier section (60kg) and high tensile strength (90 UTS) rails in place of 90R/52 kg 72 UTS rails.
• Predominant use of long rail panels or welded rails in place of earlier fish plated joints.
• Decision to use thick web switches on heavy density routes along with Wieldable Cast Manganese Steel (CMS) crossings in place of ordinary curved switches and Cast Manganese Steel Crossings (CMS).
• Ultrasonic testing of rails & welds with the help of digital double rail testers (DRT) in place of analogue single rail tester. Vehicle borne ultrasonic testing of rails and welds.
• Mechanised maintenance of track.
• Introduction of corrosion resistant, stainless steel, higher pay to tare ratio wagons.
• Bogie Mounted Brake system for wagons.
• Higher capacity Auto car wagons etc.
• Installation of Mobile Train Radio Communication (MTRC) system for providing full duplex communication between Driver, Guard, ASM, LC Gate & approaching trains as well as maintenance staff on A, B & C routes of Indian Railways.
• Setting up of MTRC system based on GSM-R technology.
• Pace of electrification on Indian Railways has been accelerated and around 1300 RKMs are being electrified every year.
• Signalling systems like Electrical/Electronic Interlocking with centralized operation of points and signals.
• Multiple Aspect Colour Light Signalling with LED Signals.
• Complete Track Circuiting of the station.
• Digital Axle Counters.
• Automatic Signalling.
• Train Management Systems (TMS) etc.
• Considering adoption of Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS) and Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) as means of Automatic Train Protection subject to available funds.
• Elimination of level crossings & unmanned level crossings.
• Introduction of new generation locomotives.
• Traction development for improvement in fuel efficiency, emission and reliability.
• High speed potential LHB coaches.
• Upgradation of suburban coaches.
• Green toilets on all passenger trains.
• Enhancement of customer amenities at stations and on trains.
• Feasibility studies for semi high speed operation.
• Establishment of loco and coach manufacturing units.
• Installation of captive power generation and renewable energy projects (solar, wind etc).
• Introduction of mobile ticketing.
• Construction of dedicated freight corridors: the Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) on the Eastern (Dankuni-Ludhiana, 1839 kms) and Western (Jawaharlal Nehru Port Terminal (JNPT) – Dadri, 1499 kms) routes are being constructed. The DFC Corridors are a strategic capacity augmentation initiative taken by Railways involves construction of dedicated freight lines to carry predominantly coal and steel on the Eastern Corridor and containers on the Western Corridor.
• For financing, apart from ring-fencing priority projects and ensuring funding for last mile projects, areas such as Foreign Direct Investment(FDI) and Public Private Partnership(PPP) are being tapped. In this connection, Ministry of Railways has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Life Insurance Corporation of India(LIC) whereby LIC has agreed to provide a funding assistance of ` 1,50,000 crore over a five year period from 2015-16 to 2019-20 for financing Railway Projects.
• Entering into partnership with State Governments & other stake holders for enhancing the reach.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
Improvement in Operating Ratio necessitates a progressively higher growth rate in Traffic Earnings vis-a-vis the Working Expenses. It is a continuous endeavour of the Railways to increase revenues and control expenditure. Steps taken to maximize the traffic earnings, inter-alia, include periodic rationalization of fare and freight tariff, effective marketing strategies to capture more and more traffic, creation of additional capacity and optimum utilization of the existing rail infrastructure, improved throughput by steps to increase productivity and efficiency, improvement of passenger interface etc. To contain expenditure, Railways have made efforts through diverse means including strict economy and austerity measures, improved man-power planning, better asset utilization and inventory management, optimizing fuel consumption etc.
Technological upgradation and the funding arrangement for the same on Indian Railways has been highlighted by different expert committees.
Technological upgradation on the Railways is an on-going process and has to match the topographical and socio-economic conditions of the country and specific need and requirement of Railways. Efforts to garner more resources to meet these requirements is also a continuous and progressive endeavour. Towards technology upgradation and development of rail transport in the country, Railways have already initiated the following:
• Upgradation of sleepers from wooden and metal to concrete sleepers.
• Use of fan shaped turnouts on concrete sleepers in place of wooden & metal sleepers.
• Use of heavier section (60kg) and high tensile strength (90 UTS) rails in place of 90R/52 kg 72 UTS rails.
• Predominant use of long rail panels or welded rails in place of earlier fish plated joints.
• Decision to use thick web switches on heavy density routes along with Wieldable Cast Manganese Steel (CMS) crossings in place of ordinary curved switches and Cast Manganese Steel Crossings (CMS).
• Ultrasonic testing of rails & welds with the help of digital double rail testers (DRT) in place of analogue single rail tester. Vehicle borne ultrasonic testing of rails and welds.
• Mechanised maintenance of track.
• Introduction of corrosion resistant, stainless steel, higher pay to tare ratio wagons.
• Bogie Mounted Brake system for wagons.
• Higher capacity Auto car wagons etc.
• Installation of Mobile Train Radio Communication (MTRC) system for providing full duplex communication between Driver, Guard, ASM, LC Gate & approaching trains as well as maintenance staff on A, B & C routes of Indian Railways.
• Setting up of MTRC system based on GSM-R technology.
• Pace of electrification on Indian Railways has been accelerated and around 1300 RKMs are being electrified every year.
• Signalling systems like Electrical/Electronic Interlocking with centralized operation of points and signals.
• Multiple Aspect Colour Light Signalling with LED Signals.
• Complete Track Circuiting of the station.
• Digital Axle Counters.
• Automatic Signalling.
• Train Management Systems (TMS) etc.
• Considering adoption of Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS) and Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) as means of Automatic Train Protection subject to available funds.
• Elimination of level crossings & unmanned level crossings.
• Introduction of new generation locomotives.
• Traction development for improvement in fuel efficiency, emission and reliability.
• High speed potential LHB coaches.
• Upgradation of suburban coaches.
• Green toilets on all passenger trains.
• Enhancement of customer amenities at stations and on trains.
• Feasibility studies for semi high speed operation.
• Establishment of loco and coach manufacturing units.
• Installation of captive power generation and renewable energy projects (solar, wind etc).
• Introduction of mobile ticketing.
• Construction of dedicated freight corridors: the Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) on the Eastern (Dankuni-Ludhiana, 1839 kms) and Western (Jawaharlal Nehru Port Terminal (JNPT) – Dadri, 1499 kms) routes are being constructed. The DFC Corridors are a strategic capacity augmentation initiative taken by Railways involves construction of dedicated freight lines to carry predominantly coal and steel on the Eastern Corridor and containers on the Western Corridor.
• For financing, apart from ring-fencing priority projects and ensuring funding for last mile projects, areas such as Foreign Direct Investment(FDI) and Public Private Partnership(PPP) are being tapped. In this connection, Ministry of Railways has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Life Insurance Corporation of India(LIC) whereby LIC has agreed to provide a funding assistance of ` 1,50,000 crore over a five year period from 2015-16 to 2019-20 for financing Railway Projects.
• Entering into partnership with State Governments & other stake holders for enhancing the reach.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
****
Cleanliness Drive in Indian Railways
As a part of the plan, under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan,
Special Cleanliness Campaign was launched on Indian Railways on 2nd Oct, 2014.
Regular events on cleanliness are planned and organised to improve and maintain
cleanliness at Railway premises including Railway stations and tracks. Weekly
special intensive cleaning drives at Railway stations in rotation have also
been undertaken by Zonal Railways. On completion of one year of Swachh Bharat
Mission, cleanliness drives have been launched by Indian Railways from 25th
Sept, 2015. This included Sardar Patel United Clean India Drive focused on
cleanliness at Railway stations and trains from 11th October, 2015. Campaigns
for increasing the awareness and participation from all sections viz. Railway
staff, Railway users/public as well as Charitable Institutions/Social
Organisations, were organised at many major stations. Enforcement of Indian
Railways (Penalties for activities affecting cleanliness at railway premises)
Rules, 2012 has also been intensified
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
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