Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian Railways has moved towards another historic step. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in Parliament ‘Railway Amendment Bill 2024’ By presenting this, a new chapter has been written for the future of Indian Railways. The Bill provides for unifying the Railways Act of 1989 and the Indian Railway Board Act of 1905, which were separate till now.
What is this ‘Railway Amendment Bill’?
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw clarified that the new Railway Act was brought in 1989, but at that time it was not integrated with the 1905 Act. He said, “This work should have been done at that time. Now is the time to get it done.” Through this bill, the administrative and operational side of the Railways will be strengthened, which is expected to bring a tremendous boost in the efficiency and development of the Railways.
What changes will come from this bill?
- Integration of Railway Board and Operations
By integrating the Railway Board and operations, the decision process will be made faster and transparent. - New plans and developments of Railways
- Plan to add 10,000 new coaches.
- Construction of 1,000 general coaches for poor passengers.
- Expansion of railway facilities on digital platform.
- technological revolution in railways
This bill will enable Railways to adopt modern technology and compete at the global level.
Modi government’s big gift to poor passengers
Railway Minister told in Parliament that special relief will be given to poor and low income group passengers. One thousand general coaches will be added by the end of December. These coaches will not only be economical, but modern facilities will also be included in them.
This decision is very important for poor passengers from social and economic point of view. Railway Minister said, “Our aim is to provide safe, affordable and convenient travel to every person.”
PM Modi’s ‘Make in India’ vision and expansion of railways
this bill ‘Make in India’ Under the initiative, self-reliance will be promoted in railways. The Railway Minister said that the new coaches will be manufactured and modernized in the country itself. This will not only increase employment opportunities in Railways, but will also encourage local industries.
What did the experts say?
Regarding the bill, experts believe that it will not only help in administrative reforms of Railways, but will also significantly expand passenger facilities.
- Economic Expert: Modernization of railways will increase the country’s GDP.
- Technical Expert: Expanding the digital capabilities of Railways will provide better services to passengers.
What else is special for the travelers in the coming time?
- State-of-the-Art Trains:
Extension of Bullet Trains and Vande Bharat Trains. - Enhanced Security:
AI based security system on trains and stations. - Cleanliness and Convenience:
Special emphasis on cleanliness in stations and trains.
Political reaction and opposition stance
While the government is calling this bill historic for the Railways, the opposition raised some questions regarding it.
- Congress: “This bill is just a show. “It will take years to implement.”
- TMC: “There are many plans, but when will they be implemented?”
Despite this, this bill has a strong chance of being passed in Parliament, as its far-reaching benefits are clear.
Future of Railways and vision of Modi government
PM Modi’s government is committed to taking Indian Railways to a new height. ‘Railway Amendment Bill 2024’ is a big step in this direction. This will not only improve the operations of the Railways, but will also make travel more convenient and accessible for crores of passengers in the country.
