New railway zone operations in Vizag await study : Railway minister

On 04 Dec 2024 16:30:34

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav informed Parliament that an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) has been appointed for the establishment of the South Coastal Railway Zone

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav informed Parliament that an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) has been appointed for the establishment of the South Coastal Railway Zone, headquartered in Visakhapatnam. The Minister stated that a study would be conducted to facilitate operational readiness, following which zone activities would commence. Responding to questions in the Lok Sabha, Vaishnav acknowledged delays in allotting land for the railway zone’s office buildings in the past. However, he credited Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu and Union Minister Rammohan Naidu for their efforts in expediting the issue.

During the session, Visakhapatnam MP Bharat emphasized the need for swift action. He pointed out that, in the past, new railway zones had initiated operations from temporary buildings while awaiting the construction of permanent facilities. Bharat inquired if a similar approach could be adopted for the South Coastal Railway Zone. In response, Vaishnav detailed several measures aimed at enhancing the speed and safety of train travel nationwide.

He said that 80 per ecnt of tracks are now suitable for speeds of 100-120 kmph and some tracks have been upgraded for speeds of 130-150 kmph. Advanced safety systems like Kavach 4.0 are being implemented to bolster rail safety. No concessions for senior citizens Addressing a query from a Tamil Nadu MP about restoring concessions for senior citizens and accredited journalists, the Minister clarified that such concessions were not feasible. He explained that the Railways already provides substantial subsidies, recovering only Rs. 54 for every Rs. 100 spent. On average, passengers benefit from a subsidy of Rs. 46 per ticket.