Union Minister Suresh Prabhu unveiled the Railway Budget 2015-16 on Thursday and gave the travelling public something to be happy about.
Here are 11 ‘goodies’ on the way:
1. The most important one, in a season where subsidy has become a dirty word, is that no hike in passenger fares was effected – those who were expecting a cut in fares, should have realised which way the political/economic wind was blowing.
2. Tired of the wait, queues and tussles? The solution is nigh with Suresh Prabhu saying his govt will be implementing buttons, coin vending machines to dispense railway tickets.
3. Travelling is never a great experience unless you throw a great eating experience into the equation. Suresh Prabhu has added a digital element and promised to implement e-catering on trains – passengers can now select meals from an array of choices.
4. Most people are not very comfortable with the security arrangements that Indian Railways offers. There is violence on a daily basis. The govt has taken the next step and said a 24X7 helpline will be implemented to enhance passenger security.
5. Women have been targetted in trains as the security is lax, especially in trains that are running late and in areas where human traffic is less. Govt says will install surveillance cameras in suburban coaches which will help improve women safety
6. Travelling cheap and in comfort without the crowding is on the cards as govt says more General class coaches will be added
7. With a cell phone in almost every person’s hand, Railways will be expanding SMS alert service for passengers
8. Got nothing else to do but stare outside the window at the rushing land, or reading newspapers? Mind-numbing! Get set to be thrilled as govt has promised on-board entertainment on the popular select Shatabdi trains.
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9. In a digital era, being without a working connection is an unpleasant experience. Now, govt says it will provide Wi-Fi connectivity even at B category stations.
10. Being stuck in the slow lane is set to become history as govt says it will raise speed in 9 railway corridors – from 110 kmph and 130 kmph to 160 and 200 kmph.
11. Now you will be able to book your rail ticket four months in advance instead of two months at present.