The Indian Railways – our country’s lifeline of public transport has seen many radical changes in the past couple of years. From introducing new technologies to enhancing existing services, railways has brought in a lot of positive changes for the comfort of its travellers. Following are some of the latest projects flagged off by Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu —
The Superfast Train “Tejas Express”
Capable of running at a speed of 200 km/h, Tejas Express came as a revolution in the history of train travel in India. Referred to as “airplane on the tracks”, this train is equipped with all modern day facilities like WiFi, on-board entertainment, CCTV cameras, GPS, bio vacuum toilets and tea and coffee vending machines.
WiFi Equipped Stations
As part of the Digital India initiative, the Indian Railways has launched free WiFi facilities at 28 stations on the Konkan Railways route. Currently, 100 stations across the country provide free WiFi facilities. Also, by 2018, railways aim at providing free WiFi services at 400 stations across the country.
Proper Uniforms for Railway Staff
Railways is all set to provide stylish uniforms designed by Ritu Beri to its 13 lakh employees. In September last year, a nationwide Facebook poll was conducted asking passengers to pick uniforms they think will be most suitable for the staff. The design named ‘Vibrant Soul of India’ received the maximum votes.
Redesigning of the stations
Choosing the public-private partnership, the Indian Railways is planning to develop 400 stations across the nation to provide modern facilities and an amazing travel experience. Foreign players from France, Japan and Malaysia are also being approached for the development.
Stations to be Monitored by CCTV
Utilising Nirbhaya Fund in the right way, the Indian Railways is all set to install CCTVs at more than 900 stations across the country. There are around 8,000 stations across the country, with 344 stations already covered by CCTV cameras.
Entertainment Options for Travellers
The Indian Railways is planning to provide entertainment services on trains and platforms. Movies, shows and educational programs will be played through audio and video means. It will be done in both paid and unpaid forms.
Connecting the North Eastern Part
Projects worth INR 90,000 crores are in the pipeline for maintaining good connectivity with the North East. A 26 km long broad gauge railway line is being constructed from Murkongselek in Assam to Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh.
Executive Lounges at the Railway Stations
The New Delhi Railway Station has a plush and revamped executive lounge with a massage centre, business centre, 5D movie theatre, recliners, complimentary drinks and buffet. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is planning to launch 50 such executive lounges across the nation.
Choosing the Energy Efficient Ways
Being one of the largest consumers of energy, the Indian Railways is exploring cost-effective and energy efficient options. As part of the targets, at least 10% of its energy requirement will be fulfilled using renewable sources. By 2020, 1000 MW solar power plant and 200 MW wind power plants are to be built across production plants and zonal railways.
High Speed Freight Locomotives
The Indian Railways is planning to launch freight locomotives, which will be twice as fast as the current ones. In the first major Foreign Direct Investment move by the Railways, 800 such freight trains will be manufactured over the next 11 years.
