New Delhi: Unlike previous governments, which introduced several new trains in every budget (over 150 at times) to play to the gallery, the Modi government confined itself to just 54 new trains.
From the Opposition, the Congress attacked the Rail Budget as “capitalist”, the CPM called it a “cosmetic exercise”, while the Trinamul said it was “vision-less” and “anti-people”.
Corporate India, however, welcomed the Rail Budget, saying the minister had tried to put the railways back on track and attempted a balance between commercial and social obligations. Commuters by and large expected a better standard of service as they are now expected to pay more.
The fuel adjustment cost to absorb hikes in diesel prices will continue to be effective every six months.
The Rail Budget also focused on the modernisation of stations, on the lines of airports, with the help of private players.
The railway minister said the Union Cabinet will soon take a decision on allowing FDI in the railways. Later, the Railway Board chairman said two foreign firms had shown interest in investing in two loco manufacturing units.
