New Delhi: Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw today highlighted significant developments in Indian Railways, including the introduction of new trains, coaches, and operational reforms aimed at improving passenger experience, safety, and efficiency.
Speaking during the Question Hour in the Lok Sabha, Vaishnaw stated that around 1,024 new trains have been introduced across the country in the post-COVID period, along with 4,651 additional coaches added to existing services. Emphasising that Railways serve the poor and middle class, he noted that 78 per cent of total train seats are in the general and sleeper categories, ensuring affordable travel for the majority.
On digital security, the Minister said the Railways has deactivated over three crore fake IRCTC accounts to prevent fraudulent ticket bookings. Regarding safety, he added that train accidents have fallen by 90 per cent, with an investment of Rs 1.2 lakh crore being made towards safety enhancements.
In a separate media briefing, Vaishnaw announced five key reforms as part of the “52 Reforms in 52 Weeks” initiative for this year. These include changes in ticket cancellation and refund rules, train boarding flexibility, salt and automobile transportation, and construction quality standards.
Under the new ticket cancellation policy
* Tickets cancelled more than 72 hours before departure will attract only a minimal flat charge.
* Tickets cancelled 72 to 24 hours before departure will incur a 25 per cent cancellation fee.
* Tickets cancelled less than 24 hours and up to 8 hours before departure will get a 50 per cent refund.
* No refund will be provided for cancellations within 8 hours of departure. Additionally, passengers can now cancel tickets at any railway counter nationwide.
Passengers will also benefit from increased flexibility in train boarding, which can now be changed up to 30 minutes before departure, compared to the previous limit before chart preparation.
The Minister further announced the introduction of single and double stack wagons for automobile carriers and improvements in construction quality. EPC contracts will now include a 20 per cent clause for ‘similar nature of work’, a fixed 2 per cent bid security, and bid capacity assessments for projects above Rs 10 crore to ensure expertise and serious participation. Vaishnaw’s announcements signal a strong push toward passenger convenience, operational efficiency, and enhanced safety standards across Indian Railways.
