Press Information Bureau

Government of India

Ministry of Railways

31-December-2012 20:58 IST

Year-end Review- 2012

RAILWAYS REVENUE EARNINGS UP BY 19.23 PER CENT DURING APRIL – N0VEMBER 2012

CARRYING ID PROOF IS NOW COMPULSORY DURING JOURNEY IN TRAINS IN ANY RESERVED CLASSES

RAILWAYS INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ON FAST TRACK

DEVELOPMENT OF RAIL CORRIDORS IN CHHATISGARH

FORMAL MOU FOR SETTING UP RAILWAY STATIONS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION SIGNED

TWO MOUs SIGNED WITH MINISTRY OF STEEL

TRAIN COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM TRIAL BEGINS

FOG RELATED INFORMATION THROUGH WEBSITE

BIDDING PROCESS FOR MUMBAI ELEVATED RAIL CORRIDOR (ERC) PROJECT SET IN MOTION

RULES FRAMED FOR ENSURING CLEANLINESS & HYGIENE IN RAILWAY PREMISES- VIOLATORS TO PAY FINE UPTO RS. 500/-

POLICY ANNOUNCED FOR RAIL-CONNECTIVITY AND CAPACITY AUGMENTATION PROJECTS

BANIHAL-QAZIGUND SECTION COMPLETED AND TRIAL RUNS STARTED

RAILWAYS AND TOURISM SIGN MOU ON CLEAN INDIA CAMPAIGN

TRAVEL DISTANCE EXTENDED FROM 100 KMS TO 150 KMS UNDER IZZAT SCHEME

TWO MORE AC DOUBLE DECKER TRAINS INTRODUCED

TRAIN RUNNING INFORMATION FACILITY EXPANDED TO COVER ALLTRAINS

A MULTI PRONGED STRATEGY TO PROVIDE FASTER AND SAFER TRAIN JOURNEYS

The year 2012 has been significant for the Railways in achieving goals and targets with regard to the following:

RAILWAYS INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ON FAST TRACK

The year 2012 saw a big push for the key infrastructure projects of Railways.  After a review meeting on infrastructure held by the Prime Minister in the last week of November 2012, deadline has been set for such important infrastructure projects like the elevated rail corridor in Mumbai, setting up of locomotive factories on public private partnership, rail tariff authority and Dedicated Freight Corridors. A time bound action plan has since been initiated by the Railway Ministry on these issues.

GROWTH IN REVENUE GENERATION

The total approximate earnings of Indian Railways on originating basis during 1^st April to 30^th November 2012 were Rs.78868.17 crore compared to Rs. 66150.48 crore during the same period last year, registering an increase of 19.23 per cent. The total goods earnings have gone up from Rs. 43891.25 crore during 1^st April – 30^th November 2011 to Rs. 54487.10 crore during 1^st April – 30^th November 2012, registering an increase of 24.14 per cent. The total passenger revenue earnings during 1^st April – 30^th November 2012 were Rs. 20423.31 crore compared to Rs. 18742.83 crore during the same period last year, registering an increase of 8.97 per cent.

In the calendar year 2012, Indian Railways has achieved scrap sale of Rs. 3903.84 crore till Nov. 2012. For the corresponding period in 2011 sale achieved by Railway was 3748.68 crore.

The total approximate numbers of passengers booked during 1^st April – 30^th November 2012 were 5700.57 million compared to 5517.86 million during the same period last year, showing an increase of 3.31 per cent.

Indian Railways have carried 647.11 million tonnes of revenue earning freight traffic during April-November 2012. The freight carried shows an increase of 29.06 million tonnes over the freight traffic of 618.05 million tonnes actually carried during the corresponding period last year, registering an increase of 4.70 per cent. 

FORMAL MOU FOR SETTING UP RAILWAY STATIONS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION SIGNED

In a path breaking initiative taken by the Ministry of Railways, a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in February 2012 for setting up a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) namely “Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation Limited” (IRSDL) to take up work of redevelopment of railway stations along with station maintenance across India in a dedicated manner as a part of the continuous process of augmenting and improving amenities at the railway stations. The MoU was signed between the two agencies of the Ministry of Railways, namely Ircon International Limited (IRCON) and Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) for formation of this new SPV. Under new SPV, it is proposed to provide the identified stations with well-designed concourses, high quality waiting spaces, easy access to the platforms, congestion free platforms, modern ‘State of the art’ Catering facilities, Hotels and other facilities. The redeveloped stations would have provision for convenient entry; inter platform transfer and easy access to all the facilities for the physically disabled persons and senior citizens. The stations would also be provided with waste disposal facilities to improve hygiene and cleanliness.

After conducting preliminary studies & holding consultations with zonal railways, five stations, Bijwasan (Delhi) Habibganj (Bhopal), Anand Vihar (Delhi), Chandigarh, Shivaji Nagar (Pune), have been identified for implementation through IRSDC in the first phase.

CARRYING ID PROOF MADE COMPULSORY DURING TRAIN JOURNEYS IN ANY RESERVED CLASS

As a major initiative to further facilitate the travel of bonafide and legitimate passengers and to reduce the scope for misuse of reserved ticketing system by unscrupulous elements/middlemen, the Ministry of Railways has now made it compulsory to carry prescribed original proof of identity cards during train travel on all reserved classes of tickets.  Those travelling without an original identify proof shall be treated as without ticket and charged accordingly. This new change of policy is aimed at facilitating the travel of bonafide and genuine passengers and simultaneously checking the scope for travel on transferred tickets.  It is also considered that this policy provision shall also be useful from the security point of view.  

SIGNING TWO MOUs WITH MINISTRY OF STEEL

Indian Railways signed this year two MoUs signifying new innovative financial funding for development of infrastructure projects in the country. Railways signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NMDC Ltd., a navratan Pubic Undertaking Sector under the administrative control of the Ministry of Steel for doubling the 150 kms Laddalpur-Kirandul section of the Kottavalsa – Kirindul line of the east cost Railway to augment the evacuation capacity of NMDC to meet the increased demand for iron ore of the Indian steel industry.

Indian Railways also signed an MoU with another PSU of Ministry of Steel namely, RINL, for setting up a forged wheel factory at Rae Barely in Uttar Pradesh. This factory, the biggest such plant in India will manufacture one lakh wheels every year.

MUMBAI ELEVATED RAILCORIDOR (ERC) PROJECT

 Mumbai has one of the most crowded and overloaded suburban systems in the world. Concerned about the capacity constraint on the Corridor, Ministry of Railways has decided to augment the system capacity and has accordingly envisioned a two track elevated Corridor along Churchgate-Virra section.  This new Elevated Rail Corridor (ERC) will bebetween Oval Maidan and Virar of Western Railway in Mumbai area.  The indicative cost of 63.27 km-long ERC project is approximately Rs. 21,000 crore. Under this corridor, 26 stations are proposed, out of which 5 stations would be underground, 19 elevated and 2 at grade.

ERC is proposed to be built through Public-Private Partnership on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis.  The bidding process for selection of a private entity as the bidder to whom the Project may be awarded has been set in motion with first prebid conference being held in November 2012.  

 Moreover, the Ministry of Railways continued talks with Government of Maharashtra for signing state support agreement, which is crucial for the success of the project.

POLICY FOR RAIL-CONNECTIVITY AND CAPACITY AUGMENTATION PROJECTS

In a major policy initiative to attract private capital for accelerated construction of fixed Rail infrastructure, Ministry of Railways has formulated an investor-friendly policy framework for private participation in rail connectivity and capacity augmentation projects.
The policy contains five models, namely, Non-Government Railway, Joint Venture with equity participation by Railways, capacity augmentation through funding by customers, BOT and BOT annuity. The latter two (BOT and BOT annuity) will follow the existing appraisal and approval procedure laid down by Ministry of Finance through PPP-AC route.

Model agreements will be prepared for all these models. First-mile and last-mile and inter-connecting lines for the entire freight commodity basket would be covered under the policy. The policy would provide much-needed impetus to building of critical missing in railway network and evacuation from ports, mines, big industrial units and plants.
This will give a boost to industrial development of the country and significantly enhance freight traffic of railways. 

BANIHAL-QAZIGUND SECTION COMPLETED AND TRIAL RUNS STARTED

The Indian Railway has achieved one more milestone in transportation sector with the completion of Banihal-Qazigund section of ambitious and challenging Udhampur-Baramullah-Srinagar Rail link Project. Trials by running trains have started in the section by Railways with the arrival of first Track Tamping machine at Banihal on 24^th December 2012 from Qazigund. All the major works have been completed and finishing touch is being given. This section will be ready for opening shortly The 17.729 km long section consists of only one tunnel of 11.215 km length known as Pir Panjal Tunnel, which is  the longest transportation tunnel in India and second longest in Asia. This tunnel was big engineering marvel and breakthrough accomplished by IRCON International Ltd., a PSU under the Ministry of Railways which is executing the Dharam-Qazigund-Baramullah section of this challenging J&K rail project.

Opening of Banihal-Qazigund railway section will be a turning point not only in the history of Jammu & Kashmir State only, but for the Indian history.  A lot of problems are being faced by passengers travelling between Banihal and Qazigund due to closure of Jawahar Tunnel in winter season owing to heavy snow fall. All these problems will be reduced to a large extent by running of train services between Banihal-Qazigund.  Moreover the distance between Banihal and Qazigund will also be reduced from 35 Km road length to 17.729 Kms railway line. It will be a cheaper, faster and dependable mode of transport.

ADARSH STATION & MFCs

The scheme of Adarsh stations has been introduced from the year 2009.  Adarsh Stations are provided with basic facilities such as drinking water, adequate toilets, catering services, waiting rooms and dormitories especially for lady passengers, better signage, etc.  A total of 976 stations have been identified as Adarsh Stations  and against which 616 stations have been developed so far.

Work at 69 stations has been completed during 2012-13 so far.  Work at another 229 stations is targeted for completion in 2012-13.

A new concept of development of Multi-Functional Complexes (MFCs) with budget hotels was introduced to provide rail users facilities like food  plaza, ATM, Variety Store, Books & Chemist shops, Parking etc.  So far, a total of 196 stations have been identified for MFCs.   Construction of 37 MFC buildings has been completed.

DEDICATED FREIGHT CORRIDORS

Indian Railways’ ambitious project of ‘Dedicated Freight Corridor’ (DFC) continued its implementation momentum during this year.  There has been progress on both the corridors namely 1499 km long Western DFC from Jawahar Lal Nehru Port (JNPT) in Mumbai to Dadri/Tughlakabad (Near Delhi) and 1839 km long Eastern DFC from Ludhiana (Punjab) to Dankuni (Near Kolkata).  Land acquisition is progressing well and as on November.2012, out of total land of 10703 hectares to be acquired for both corridors, 7768 hectares i.e. 73% has been acquired.   Initial funding agreements for Western DFC through JICA and part of Eastern DFC (Ludhiana-Khurja-Kanpur-Mughalsarai) through World Bank have already been formalized while remaining Dankuni-Sonnagar section of Eastern DFC is proposed to be implemented through PPP and Mughalsarai-Sonnagar section of Eastern DFC in being implemented through own resources of the Ministry of Railways.

 In case of Eastern DFC, tender for Civil Works for Khurja-Kanpur section has been opened and is shortly going to be awarded.  66 Km Durgawati-Karwandia section of this corridor is targeted for commissioning in December 2013. Construction work of formation, bridges and laying of track is in progress.

In case of Western DFC, pre-qualification for Civil Contract for 625 km, Rewari – Palanpur section of phase 1 has been completed.  Construction work of 54 major and important bridges in Vaiterna-Bharuch section of this corridor  is in progress and 5 major bridges have been completed.

MOU ON CLEAN INDIA CAMPAIGN

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on ‘Campaign Clean India’ was signed between the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Railways. Under the MOU, the two Ministries will work together towards a sustained sensitization campaign to train travelers and service providers under the Capacity Building for Service Providers scheme of Ministry of Tourism and for consultations and discussions with the stake holders including the travel trade to evolve strategies for the up-keep and cleanliness of the stations and coaches.  The Ministry of Railways will encourage the Hotels and Travel Trade Associations, the Companies and the Corporate Houses to adopt Railway Stations in furtherance of Campaign Clean India. The Minister of Tourism will undertake branding of long distance trains running on important routes in different of the country, whereby one side would depict important tourism sites of the country and the other side would carry Campaign Clean India message on mutually agreed routes and terms.

NEW PRODUCTION UNITS

Indian Railways commissioned the Diesel Component Factory at Dankuni on 28^th May 2012. The factory was inaugurated by flagging of the first engine block manufactured from Dankuni. Rail Coach Factory at Rae Bareli commenced its manufacturing activities. This factory is manufacturing superior LHB type coaches which will help Indian Railways to mitigate coach shortage. It has manufactured 51 coaches up to November 2012 by sourcing shells from Rail Coach Factory, Kapurthala. The foundation stone was laid on 21^st February 2012 for the construction of the state-of-the-art Coach Factory  at  Palakkad in Kerala.

The foundation stone for the commencement of work for the Ancillary Unit of CLW has been laid on 28^th May, 2012.

A Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) is being commissioned at Haldia. In the first phase the plant will produce one rake (of 8 coaches) every month, while in the second phase, the infrastructure of this Plant of Haldia will be augmented through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode to roll out 50 rakes of DMU annually.

Rail Wheel Plant of Bela (near Patna) has started casting wheels successfully.

AIR CONDITIONED DOUBLE DECKER

Indigenously designed, developed and manufactured Air conditioned double decker train was introduced for the first time between Howrah and Dhanbad. Now this year, an improved design of such train has been developed and its services between Jaipur and Delhi and Ahemdabad and Mumbai have been introduced. Such services are also planned between Habibganj-Indore and Chennai-Bangalore in near future. AC double decker train with improved passenger friendly design is having capacity of 120 passengers per coach and are becoming popular among passengers.

EFFORTS OF RAILWAYS ON ENERGY CONSERVATION, ALTERNATE ENERGY SOURCES AND GREEN ENERGY

Indian Railways continued its efforts on energy conservation, on exploring alternate energy sources and on adopting green energy initiatives.  Indian Railways has started use of energy efficient new generation electric locomotives and Electrical Multiple Units (EMUs) with 3 phase regenerative braking features, head on generation systems for eliminating use of DG sets in trains. Integral Coach Factory (ICF) will be manufacturing 72 AC EMU rakes equipped with three phase propulsion equipment. First batch of two prototype rakes is likely to be manufactured by 31.03.2012.

To improve efficiency and to explore alternate sources of energy, Indian Railways have already taken a large number of steps & measures which include Solar projects for addition of another 4.69 MWp by providing solar PV modules at 200 stations, 21 administrative buildings and 1000 level crossing gates have been initiated as green energy initiative with assistance from Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

So far Indian Railways has harnessed 10.5 MW  of wind energy and about 4.5 MW of solar energy at LC gates, way side Railway stations, street lights, solar water heaters at training institutes/running rooms/hospitals/rest houses/canteens/base kitchens etc. 

The project of providing of CFL in Railway colonies has been awarded Special Jury award at UIC conference in Venice.  

HIGHEST EVER 11 NATIONAL CONSERVATION AWARDS FOR RAILWAYS

Continued efforts and constant persuasion by Railway Board and energy conservation initiatives by Zonal Railways have resulted into bagging highest ever 11 National Energy Conservation Awards by the Indian Railways out of total awards of 87 from 773 applications during 2012, which were awarded by the President of India during National Energy Conservation Day on 14^th December 2012.

ENHANCING SAFETY – TPWS AND TCAS

Indian Railways continued its thrust on enhancing safety.  Train Protection & Warning System (TPWS) was extended on pilot basis on main line operations on Hazrat Nizamuddin – Agra Section of Northern/North Central Railway (200 Route Kilometres) where work is under progress.  Based upon experience gained from ACD & TPWS systems, Indian Railways has now taken up development of Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS). TCAS shall be a fusion of functionalities of TPWS & ACD and shall prevent Signal Passing at Danger as well as Collisions. After invitation of Expression of Interest, six Indian firms have been shortlisted. One of the firm has developed the Prototype which underwent field trials in Oct’2012 over South Central Railway.

SIGNALlNG & TELECOM SYSTEM IMPROVEMENT

To increase efficiency and enhance safety in train operations, modern signaling system with Route Relay/Panel/ Electronic Interlocking with Multi Aspect Colour Light Signaling (MACLS) has been provided at 252 more stations this year.

To increase line capacity and reduce headway, Automatic Block Signaling has been provided on 169 Route Kms increasing the total Route Kms with Automatic Block Signaling to 2376 RKM.  

Mobile Train Radio Communicationsystem for communication among train Driver, Guard, Station Master, Control Office & field maintenance staff during run of the train has been commissioned on 1725 route kilometres and work is in progress in 1000 route kilometres which is expected to be commissioned shortly.

OPTICAL FIBRE CABLE COMMISSIONED

During the 2012 calendar year, 2915 Rkm OFC Cable has been commissioned taking total to 42,915 Rkm. and 4500 Rkm Quad cable  has been commissioned taking total to 48100 Rkm.

 All the zonal exchanges and divisional change have been connected on the newly established Next Generation Network (NGN) of Railways.

V-Sat terminal in 41 Accident Relief Train (ART’s) for data & voice communication have already been installed and the work is underway to cover more ARTs. 

On-board internet facility in running trains is under trial.

ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE ASSEMBLY AND ANCILLARY UNIT OF CLW AT DANKUNI

In order to ramp up production of 6000 HP new generation locomotives from a level of 50 in 2009-10 to complete switch over to 3 phase locos, an Electric Loco Assembly and Ancillary Unit of CLW at Dankuni has been envisaged. The construction work at Dankuni Unit entrusted to a Railway PSU Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd. (RVNL)  commenced in October, 2012.  The unit will be recipient of latest Japanese technology 3-Phase 9000 HP electric locomotives under JICA

Loan.

5500 HORSE POWER DIESEL LOCOMOTIVE

Diesel Locomotive Works/Varanasi in association with Research Design and Standard Organisation (RDSO), Lucknow has designed a 5500 HP Diesel locomotive fort freight services with state-of-the-art technology. This locomotive is capable of delivering 1000 HP more power vis-à-vis the current High Horse Power Diesel locomotives. A prototype WDG5 loco has been manufactured and is currently under safety trials. Series production of this type of locomotives has been planned and will commence after completion of the ongoing validation process.

PASSENGER AMENITIES - IMPROVED TICKETING SYSTEM

Passenger Reservation System (PRS) facility has been made available at around 2987 locations by year-end by adding around 160 new locations during the year. Under the Mushkil Aasaan scheme (Mobile ticketing vans), four Mobile ticketing vans were functioning before the commencement of the year i.e. one each at Delhi, Kolkata, Vapi and Jaipur, one more such van has been introduced at Anand from June 2012. Further locations are being finalized for the introduction of such  vans.

Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) facility has been extended to approximately 460 new locations/stations during the year, increasing the total number of locations with UTS facility to 5551.

Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs) have been introduced in suburban tickets and platform tickets. About 250 ATVMs were commissioned during the year taking the total tally of installed ATVMs to 808 on Indian Railways.

It has been decided to set up AC Executive lounges at important stations to provide value added services at a charge, offering facilities such as wi-fi internet, buffet services, wash and change concierge services for pre-departure and post-arrival assistance to passengers.

BOOKING TICKET THROUGH MOBILE PHONE

To bring further convenience to the rail users, Indian Railways through Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Railway, is offering the service of booking e-ticket over the mobile phone. After initial registration and downloading of suitable software on the mobile handset with internet facility, it is quite easy for the mobile users to book a reserve ticket through their own mobile. After booking, the passenger l receives a reservation message with full details of the ticket including PNR, Train No, date of journey, class etc. This virtual message is treated at par with the print-out of the e-ticket.

INTRODUCTION OF BIO-TOILETS

With a commitment to provide hygienic environment to its passengers and staff, Indian Railways, along with Defence Research & Development Organization (DRDO) have developed Environment Friendly Bio-toilets for its passenger coaches. In these bio-toilets, the human waste is treated by bacteria, which is benign to the humans.  This bacteria converts human waste into water and gases (methane and CO2). The gases escape to atmosphere and treated waste water is discharged after chlorination. Human waste thus does not fall on the tracks.

Eight trains are running with 436 bio-toilets and in the year 2012-13, 2500 more bio-toilets are planned to be introduced. A complete switch-over to bio-toilets in new coaches has been planned by 2016-17 and the Indian Railway has targeted elimination of direct discharge passenger coach toilet systems by the end of the Thirteenth Five Year Plan i.e., 2021-22.

 TRAVEL DISTANCE EXTENDED FROM 100 KMS TO 150 KMS UNDER IZZAT SCHEME

The travel distance from l00 kilometres has been extended to 150 kilometres under IZZAT scheme. There is no change in other terms and conditions. This extension of travel distance from 100 kms to 150 kms is admissible on IZZAT Monthly Season Tickets (MST) purchased on and after June 1, 2012. 

 IZZAT is a scheme of uniformly priced MST of Rs. 25/- inclusive of all surcharges issued up to distance of 100 Kms to persons working in unorganised sector with monthly income not exceeding Rs. 1500/-.  This distance has now been increased from 100 km to 150 km.

COMPLIMENTARY RAILWAY CARD PASS FACILITY/CONCESSION EXTENDED

Continuing with its social measures, Indian Railways has decided that the civilianrecipients of gallantry awards of Chakra series (namely Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra) will also be provided 1^st /2^nd Class AC Complimentary Card passes on the lines as admissible to Defence awardees.  The procedure and other conditions for issue of such Card Passes to civilian Chakra awardees remain the same as applicable to Defence awardees.

 Complimentary Card Passes issued to sportspersons who are Arjuna Awardees have  now been made valid for travel in 1^st Class/2^nd AC in Rajdhani trains and Chair Car (CC) in Shatabdi trains besides being valid for travel in 1^st Class/2^nd AC in other mail/express trains (except Duronto trains) over All Indian Railways (except Metro Railway/Kolkata) as per the existing provision.

Concession is also given in train fares to patients suffering' from Sickle Cell Anaemia/Aplastic Anaemia, when travelling for treatment/periodical check-up to the Government recognized hospitals, and return after treatment/periodical check-up. The element of concession will be 50 per cent in the basic fares of Sleeper, AC Chair Car, AC 3-tier and AC 2-tier classes.

IMPROVEMENT IN CATERING SERVICES

Supervision and monitoring of catering services both in trains and at stations has been strengthened, as a result of this the number of complaint cases has reduced by 4.82 % (approx.) during the Calendar Year (up to October, 2012) as compared to the corresponding period of last year. About 26860 inspections have been carried out during January, 2012 to October, 20 12 by Zonal Railways for ensuring quality in catering. In order to make catering services effective, a Standard Bid Documents (SBDs) have been prepared for award of tenders for various catering services over Indian Railways.

MODERN METHODS FOR CLEANING COACHES, RUNNING TRAINS & STATIONS

Indian Railways continued to strengthen its modern methodologies for cleaning which included intensive mechanized cleaning of coaches in the coaching depots, On-board Housekeeping Scheme (OBHS) for running trains and mechanized cleaning under Clean Train Station scheme.  In addition, fifty locations have been identified to set up Mechanized laundries for improving the quality of washing of bed rolls.

TRAIN RUNNING INFORMATION FACILITY EXPANDED TO COVER ALL TRAINS

To provide accurate train running information to the public, the Indian Railways has expanded the train running information facility. Now the information on the running of all trains is available at www.trainenquiry.com.  Similarly this facility is available through SMS on 139. Earlier, train running information of only selected 36 important trains (Shatabdi, Rajdhani & Duronto) were available at website www.simran.in and through SMS on 9415139139.  

A MULTI PRONGED STRATEGY FOR FASTER AND SAFER TRAIN JOURNEYS

Indian Railways is adopting a multi-pronged strategy to provide a safer, faster, cleaner, and comfortable passenger trains.   Firstly, seven corridors have been identified for conducting pre-feasibility studies for running high speed trains (popularly referred as Bullet trains) at speeds above 350 kmph. These corridors will be set up through PPP route. Initially, Mumbai- Ahemdabad corridor has been taken up for which pre-feasibility has been completed. Secondly, a study is also being done on Delhi-Mumbai route with Japanese help to raise the speed of passenger trains from 160 kmph to 200 kmph being referred to as Semi-High Speed. Thirdly, Indian Railways is working on the concept of acquiring Electrical Multiple Units (EMU) Train sets for intercity journeys for operating speed ranging from 130-160 km/hour.  With high pick-up and increased acceleration & deceleration characteristic, these proposed modern distributed powered EMU train sets will provide faster and safer movement and will substantially reduce run time.

FOG RELATED INFORMATION THROUGH WEBSITE

In another step to provide relief to passengers who will be hit by fog and affected by train delays, the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS),  of Ministry of  Railways, has launched its mini-site for fog-related information in collaboration with railyatri.in. The website,  can be accessed at http://events.trainenquiry.com/fog.  It will provide information related to fog report on routes over the last 24 hours, current-time list of trains affected by fog, cancellations and diversions and trains rescheduled from origin. All four sets of information will inform people about the delay in trains due to fog in a bid to let them plan their journey better.  The website will be updated every 2 to 10 minutes so that the passengers can get the latest information on the status of their trains. Northern Railway has started a new Enquiry No. 011-23747110 for train status. Moreover, five digit train number can also be sent on mobile number 9717631813 through SMS to get latest status. This is in addition to 139 Enquity Number.

RULES FRAMED FOR ENSURING CLEANLINESS & HYGIENE IN

RAILWAY PREMISES – VIOLATERS TO PAY FINE UPTO RS. 500/-

The Ministry of Railways has issued a notification containing rules on prohibition of activities affecting cleanliness and hygiene in the Railway premises alongwith penalties for contravention of these rules.

 Under these notified rules, no person shall (i) throw or deposit litter in any occupied or unoccupied Railway premises or the carriage except in authorised places; (ii) cook, bathe, spit, urinate, defecate, feed animal or birds, repair or wash vehicles, washing utensils or clothes or any other objects or keep any type of storage in any Railway premises except in such facilities or conveniences specifically provided for any of these purposes; (iii) paste or put up any poster or write or draw anything or matter in any compartment or carriage of the Railways or any premises thereof, without any lawful authority; (iv) indulge in defacing Railway property.

Authorised Vendors/hawkers will make necessary arrangement to keep the container or waste basket for collecting litter and proper disposal of its contents.

Whosoever contravenes any of the provisions of these rules or fails to comply with such provisions shall be punished with a fine which shall not exceed five hundred rupees.

POLICIES TO FACILITATE PRIVATE INVESTMENT IN TERMINALS AND RAKES

(1) Liberalized Wagon Investment Scheme (LWIS)  :  LWIS allows investment by End users (viz. producers, manufacturers and consumers of goods) in Special Purpose Wagons (SPW) and High Capacity Wagons (HCW).  The policy was issued on 15.04.2008. 

With a view to make the scheme more liberal and customer-friendly, the Liberalized Wagon Investment Scheme (LWIS) has been reviewed and policy guidelines on Revised Liberalized Wagon Investment Scheme (LWIS) have been issued on 02.01.2012.

So far, approval for procurement of 52 rakes by 10 firms, having an approximate value of 1218 crores has been accorded to various customers by Ministry of Railways.  Out of which, 14 rakes have been procured/ inducted and are running on the system. 

(2)  Wagon Leasing Scheme (WLS)  :  This Scheme has been launched to introduce the concept of leasing of railway wagons on IR. The scheme aims at induction of rakes through PPP route with the private sector for High Capacity Wagons and Special Purpose Wagons and wagons for container movement.  WLS can lease wagons to Automobile Freight Train Operators, Liberalized Wagon Investment Scheme, Special Freight Train Operators and Container Train Operators. The policy has been issued on 15.04.2008. M/s. GATX and have been registered as Wagon Leasing Company under the policy on 18.05.2012 and  M/s Touax Texmaco Railcar Leasing Pvt.  registered on 20.09.12 under the policy.

(3)  Automobile Freight Train Operator Scheme (AFTO)  :  To increase Indian Raiwlays’ market share in transportation of automobile i.e. two/three-wheelers, cars and tractors etc. by inviting private participation, a new scheme namely Automobile Freight Train Operator Scheme AFTO has been issued on  19.07.2010.  The policy is however, under modification with a view to make it further investor friendly.

M/s Maruti Suzuki and M/s APL Logistics Vascor Automotive Ltd. have applied to participate under the scheme this year.

(4)  Special Freight Train Operator Scheme (SFTO) :  To increase Rail share in the commodities like fertilizers, molasses, edible oil, caustic soda, chemicals, petrochemicals, alumina, bulk cement and fly ash etc.,  a new scheme namely Special Freight Train Operator Scheme (SFTO) has been launched , to attract private investment in special purpose wagons required for transportation of these commodities. Policy has been issued on 31.05.2010.

Approval has been given this year to M/s Fourcee for procurement of 3 rakes (tank wagons) for Caustic Soda. These rakes will run on East Coast Railway. Policy is under mo0dification to make it further attractive for investors.

(5) Private Freight Terminals (PFT)  :  To facilitate rapid development of a network of freight terminals with private investment to provide efficient and cost effective logistics services with warehousing solution to end users, a new scheme namely Private Freight Terminal (PFT) has been launched. Policy has been issued on 31.05.2010 which was modified and revised this year to attract more investment..

So far 32 proposals have been received, out of which PFTs at Timmapur (SCR), Wardha (CR), Tadali (CR), Somathane (CR), Pali (NWR) and KRIBHCO Siding Hazira (WR) have been notified. In principle approval has been given to 14 PFTs by zonal railways.

FREIGHT INCENTIVE SCHEMES

A slew of freight incentive schemes have been introduced with the objective of generating additional traffic volume and additional revenue for the Railways. These schemes which are in operation since 2006, have since been meaningfully moderated and suitably modified based on experience gained in the interregnum These schemes have been re-introduced as “The Freight Incentive Schemes and Transportation Products 2009” .  The schemes have been giving better yield to Railways.

FREIGHT OPERATION INFORMATION SYSTEM

Freight Operation Information System (FOIS) is being extended to cover the 235 weighbridge locations on Indian Railways. 95 such weighbridge locations were commissioned during the year increasing the number of such locations commissioned to 135.  The e-payment facility was further extended to more customers and the percentage of freight collected through this channel increased to 74.6% from 40% at the end of the previous year.          

Improvement in freight loading performance was achieved with intensive monitoring of freight terminals through FOIS for effective reduction in wagon detention.

FREIGHT MAINTENANCE MANAGER (FMM) COMMISSIONED

Wagon maintenance application called Freight Maintenance Manager (FMM) whichentails maintenance of historical data for wagons and their critical components and the availability of spare parts at various workshops was commissioned at Dadri and Dandarikalan in the month of Feb. & March 2012 respectively.  Moreover, the pilot project for Locoshed Management System (LMS) for management of diesel sheds has been commissioned at Tughlakabad and Lucknow sheds.

 UPGRADING SPEED OF BOXN WAGONS THROUGH IN-HOUSE DESIGN UPGRADATION

An in-house design of upgraded suspension has been finalized which will be used to convert existing BOXN type wagons to BOXNHAM wagons at a marginal additional cost.  While the existing BOXN  wagon is fit to run at 60 kmph in loaded and 80 kmph in empty condition, the converted BOXNHAM wagon has been cleared to run at 75 kmph with CC+8+2 load and at 100 kmph in empty condition,.  This design promises to revolutionize freight transportation on Indian Railways by bringing about 25% increase in maximum speed of bulk of goods trains.  The first BOXNHAM rake of 59 wagons has been turned out from Jhansi workshop in May, 2012.

CONTAINER TRAFFIC CHARGES RATIONALISED

Periodic revision in Haulage charges for movement of containers in privately owned wagons have been carried out and made applicable for implementation in two phases: w.e.f. 01.12.2012 and the other phase w.e.f. 01.02.2013, respectively. Partial modifications in case of Hub & Spoke System too has been carried out for implementation w.e.f. 01.01.2013.

DEVELOPMENT OF RAIL CORRIDORS IN CHHATISGARH

Continuing with the Indian Railways and State Government partnership model, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the development of rail corridors in Chhatisgarh state was signed.  The three rail corridors meant for both passengers and freight would be developed in northern region of Chhatisgarh state, approximately 452 kilometres in total length.. These are:- 1) East Corridor: Bhupdevpur-Gharghoda-Dharamjaygarh up to Korba with spur from Gharghoda to Donga Mauha to connect mines of Gare-Pelma block, approximately 180 kilometres in length, 2) North Corridor: Surajpur-Parsa-Katghora-Korba, approximately 150 kilometres in length and 3) East-West Corridor: Gevra Raod to Pendra Road via Dipka, Katghora, Sindurgarh, approximately 122 kilometres in length. These corridors will be implemented through specific Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs).

DIVIDEND BY RAILWAY PSUs

For the financial year 2011-12, seven profit making Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) under administrative control of Ministry of Railways have given Rs. 405.78 Crore as dividend to the Ministry which is  approximately 14% more than the dividend paid for the last year.  The PSUs are Container Corporation of Indian Limited (CONCOR), Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC), IRCON International Limited, Railtel Corporation of India Limited (RCIL), Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) and RITES.

RAILTEL BECOMES MINI-RATNA

A PSU of Ministry of Raiwlays namely Railtel Corporation of India Ltd. has been granted status of mini-Ratna Category I in May2012.

FILLING UP OF VACANCIES ON PRIORITY BASIS

Filling up of vacancies is a matter of priority and is being actively pursued by Railways Recruitment Boards. In 2012, fourteen written examinations have been held for 271 categories, covering 50515 vacancies. Panels of about 15,838 candidates mainly for safety category posts have been supplied to Zonal Railways/Production Units during the last 11 months period i.e. 1^st January 2012 to 30^th November 2012.  Five centralized notifications have been issued in 2012 covering 27,038 vacancies in 138 categories.  Examinations against 4 notifications, out of five issued in 2012, have already been held in this year itself for 26,213 vacancies.

FELICITATION OF RAILWAY SPORTSPERSONS FOR EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE

Railway sportspersons were felicitated by the Railway Ministry for their remarkable performance in the London Olympics – 2012.  They were presented with a shawl, a memento and the cheque of the award amount.  Sushil Kumar, who won silver medal in wrestling (66 kg. Free Style) event in London Olympics was given a cash award of Rs. 75 lakh.  Joydeep Karmakar who got 4^th position in the final in Shooting (50m Prone) and Ms. Krishna Punia who got 7^th position in the final in Discuss Throw were given Rs. 25 lakh cash award each. Recognizing the commitment and contribution of coaches,  an award of Rs. 1 lakh each for Shri Satpal, Coach of Sushil Kumar, Sh. Sunny Thomas, Coach of Joydeep Karmakar and Sh. Virender Punia, Coach of Krishna Punia was also given. In a momentous recognition of the role and contribution of the Indian Railways in promoting sports in the country, Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) of Ministry of Railways has bagged “Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar”, for the year 2012 which is a part of National Sports Awards, announced by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.

BETTER MEDICAL CARE TO RAILWAY BENEFICIARIES

Ministry of Railways has approved a cashless medical scheme for retired railway employees called Retired Employees Liberalized Health Scheme (RELHS). Under this scheme, the beneficiaries can take treatment in Recognized Private Hospitals in emergencies. The Zonal Railways are in the process of implementing the scheme. RELHS has been made mandatory for post March 2009 retirees and open-ended for other retired employees/ eligible dependents. A full fledged Cardiac Unit has been commissioned at Jag Jivan Ram Railway Hospital (JRH) Mumbai. A new Super-specialty Centre at B. R. Singh Hospital IN Eastern Railway for treatment of cardiac ailments has become fully functional.

RITEs, a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Railways, has been engaged as Transaction Advisor and Consultant for setting up of Medical Colleges on Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode at Chennai, Guwahati, Kharagpur, Lucknow and Secunderabad.

e-PROCUREMENT AND e-AUCTION

Indian Railways have implemented e-procurement system for All Zonal Railways and Production Units. So for 3.5 lakh e-tenders have been uploaded on central web site www.ireps.gov.in and more than 17,000 vendors have registered with the site. Electronic procurement has facilitated vendors and the participating industry to gain free excess to Railway’s supply tenders and has improved transparency and competitiveness in tendering process. 

Moreover, with the aim of transparency through e-governance, Indian Railways has started E-auction as one of the mode for disposal of scrap since March 2012.  E-auction has been started on all Zonal Railways.

 STRENGTHENING OF BILATERAL COOPERATION IN RAIL SECTOR WITH FOREIGN COUNTRIES

Bilateral cooperation in Railway sector with foreign countries is an ongoing process. India and China, among others, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Technical Cooperation in Railway Sector.  Under this MoU, both the countries will enhance mutual cooperation across various areas of rail technology including High Speed Rail, Heavy Haulage and Station Development. A MoU was also signed between Indian Railways and Belgium on bilateral co-operation for the effective development and modernization of railway sector of both the countries.  Another Memorandum of Understanding was signed betwee. Government of India and Government of Spain on technical cooperation in the field of Railway sector.  Delegation level talks were held separately with Switzerland and Germany on bilateral cooperation in the railway sector.   

ROLLING STOCK PRODUCTION

Indian Railways continue to do well in the rolling stock production. In the current year (till November, 2012), 416 locomotives have been manufactured, 2513 coaches have been manufactured and 16426 wagons have been procured.

IRFC RAISES FUNDS FOR ROLLING STOCK AND RAILWAY PROJECTS

Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) has been mandated to raise  Rs.15,000 crore in 2012-13 (Rs. 14,896 crore to finance rolling stock and Rs. 104 crore for railway projects being executed by RVNL).  Till end of November 2012, IRFC has raised and transferred to Ministry of Railways Rs. 2,652 crore.  

Ministry of Finance has approved issue of tax free bonds by IRFC amounting to Rs. 10,000 crore during the FY 2012-13.   Notification in this regard has been issued by Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance on 06.11.2012.   IRFC is in the process of raising funds through issue of tax free bonds by way of private placement and public issue. 

78 DAY’S WAGES AS PRODUCTIVITY LINKED BONUS FOR THE YEAR 2011-12

The Union Cabinet has accepted the proposal of the Ministry of Railways for payment of Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) equivalent to 78 days' wages for the financial year 2011-12 for all eligible non-gazetted Railway employees. The financial implication of payment of 78 days' PLB to Railway employees has been estimated to be Rs.1021.56 crore. The wage calculation ceiling prescribed for payment of PLB to the eligible non-gazetted railway employees is Rs.3500/- per month.  About 12.37 lakh non-gazetted Railway employees benefited from the decision.

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