Kochi: The state got a whopping Rs 1,206 crore, its highest budget allocations for railway projects over the years, for the financial year 2017-18. However, the decision to announce new trains and project specific allocations separately at a later stage was met with disappointment from various quarters.
“Over all, the Budget is a welcome one as finally the state gets it due share, thanks to the joint venture with the railways. However, we’ve to wait to know whether there is any allocation in terms of new trains which can be avoided,” said P Krishnakumar, President of Thrissur Railway Passengers Association.
“The budget rightly gives prominence to safety features and addition of passenger amenities. The move to take away service charges for IRCTC booking and the single-window system to lodge any complaints with coaches and related infrastructure will benefit commuters in a major way,” said Paul K J Manvettom, President of All Kerala Rail Users Association. ‘Coach mitra facility’, a single window interface to register all coach-related complaints and requirements will be introduced soon.
