Railways’ 100-Day Plan: How railways plan to enhance their services and infrastructure
Facing Flak for Poor Services, the Railways’ 100-Day Plan Includes Measures Like Quick Refunds, Crowd Mitigation, and Curbing Unauthorized Entry
The Indian Railways is under the spotlight as the new central government unveils its Railways’ 100-day plan aimed at enhancing passenger services. This comprehensive plan focuses on quick refunds, live service updates, and mitigating overcrowding to improve the overall passenger experience.
Key Initiatives in the Railways’ 100-Day Plan
Bogged down by criticism, the government’s Railways’ 100-day plan includes several aggressive passenger-centric measures. The plan emphasizes:
- 24-Hour Refunds: The current three-day ticket refund system will be replaced with a more efficient 24-hour refund system.
- Single-Window Mega App: A new mega app will provide live service updates, ticketing, and refunds in a single platform.
- Introduction of Amrit Bharat and Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains: More of these modern trains will be introduced to enhance travel comfort.
Additional Measures for Passenger Services
Beyond the immediate 100-day provisions, the Indian Railways is also focusing on further course correction. Implementing these measures was discussed at a recent meeting of top railway officials, including the railway board chairman.
- Crowding and Unauthorised Entry: Officials have been instructed to address crowding complaints and curb unauthorised entry into reserved coaches.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Special attention will be given to foot overbridges, flooded subways, and digitisation.
- Enhanced Onboard Services: Efforts will be made to improve punctuality, water availability, catering, cleanliness, and reduce waiting lists.
Jaya Verma Sinha, Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board, stated, “Pressure on passenger services has increased in the recent past. A concerted effort is required to ensure that unauthorised passengers do not board the trains and that onboard services like watering, catering, and cleaning are adequately provided.”
Focus on Infrastructure and Digitisation
Anil Kumar Khandelwal, Member Infrastructure, highlighted the importance of rectifying deficiencies in foot overbridges and subways before the rainy season. Seema Kapoor, Member Operations and Business Development, discussed the need for comprehensive passenger terminals and digital advancements.
- Passenger Demand: With passenger demand expected to rise to 10 billion by 2030, planning for sufficient terminal facilities is crucial.
- Digital Payments: Targeting 100% digital payments and addressing dark zones are priorities.
- Cyber Security: Protecting against cyber-attacks and implementing cyber crisis management plans are essential as digitisation expands.
Viksit Bharat 2047 Agenda
The Indian Railways’ agenda for ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ was also presented at the meeting, focusing on long-term improvements. The key themes include:
- Improvement in Passenger Services
- World-Class Trains and Stations
- Freight Services Enhancement
- Infrastructure Augmentation with a Corridor Approach
- Capacity Building, Passenger Comfort and Safety
- Higher Safety Standards and Green Initiatives
Targets for the next five years (2024-29), the coming year (2024-25), and the immediate 100 days were discussed, emphasizing a holistic approach to modernizing and enhancing the Indian Railways.
Conclusion
The Railways’ 100-day plan reflects a strong commitment to improving passenger services through swift refunds, comprehensive digital solutions, and better infrastructure. As these initiatives roll out, passengers can look forward to a more efficient and comfortable travel experience.
