Image Credit: Ministry of Railways
Indian Railways Allocates ₹1.14 Lakh Crore Annually for Safety Enhancements
Indian Railways has significantly increased its investment in safety measures, allocating over ₹1.14 lakh crore annually to improve infrastructure and reduce accidents. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted this financial commitment during a recent session in the Rajya Sabha, emphasizing its role in modernizing the railway network and ensuring passenger safety.
Substantial Increase in Safety Funding
The minister compared the current safety expenditures with those from the previous administration, noting that annual investments have surged from ₹8,000-10,000 crore to over ₹1.14 lakh crore. This increase reflects the government’s focus on enhancing railway safety through comprehensive infrastructural upgrades.
Comprehensive Safety Measures Implemented
The enhanced budget has facilitated several key safety initiatives:
- Elimination of Unmanned Level Crossings: All 9,000 unmanned level crossings have been addressed through personnel deployment or the construction of underpasses and flyovers, reducing collision risks.
- Track and Equipment Upgrades: Investments have been made in upgrading railway tracks, safety devices, and related infrastructure to improve operational efficiency and security.
Impact on Accident Rates
The implementation of these measures has led to a substantial decline in railway accidents. The number of annual incidents has dropped from 171 to just 30, underscoring the effectiveness of the government’s targeted safety initiatives.
Legislative Support for Safety Initiatives
The recently passed Railways (Amendment) Bill 2024 aims to further strengthen railway management and infrastructure. The legislation focuses on decentralizing authority and increasing budget allocations across states to improve overall safety and efficiency.
Conclusion
The Indian government’s commitment to railway safety is evident through its substantial financial investments and comprehensive safety measures. These efforts have not only reduced accident rates but also reinforced public confidence in the railway system, ensuring safer journeys for millions of passengers.
