Railway ministers, even those from Bihar, have made several promises for the state, but many of them have been buried in the sands of time

Bihar Chamber of Commerce (BCC) president O.P. Sah has sent a pre-budget memorandum to railway minister Dinesh Trivedi on how to improve services and enhance existing facilities.

Sah outlined the key points included in the memorandum which he expects Trivedi to address in the railway budget to be presented on Wednesday.

Safety

Sah said it is imperative that security of goods and passengers is ensured. “Special emphasis should be laid on a safe journey. A number of accidents have occurred recently. Anti-collision device should be fitted on all important trains and RPF (Railway Protection Force) should be entrusted with security arrangements,” said Sah.

On rail bridges, the BCC president said: “The condition of several rail bridges across Bihar is deplorable. A thorough examination of all rail bridges should be done and necessary repair and maintenance should be carried out.”

Third line for locals

Frequent delay in arrival and departure of long-distance trains is another reason for concern, Sah said.

“As preference is given to local trains, long-distance trains entering from Mughalsarai in the west and Mokama in the east are being delayed abnormally. Hence, a third line for local trains should be constructed between Mokama and Mughalsarai at the earliest.”

Long-distance trains

Stressing on starting new trains, Sah said: “Duronto trains between Patna-Delhi, Patna-Howrah, Patna-Mumbai and Patna-Pune should also be introduced. Apart from this, more superfast trains linking Patna-Mumbai and Patna-Bangalore should be started.”

Project completion

Sah emphasised on completion of pending rail projects in the state. Bihar Industries Association president KPS Keshri said speedy execution of projects announced in the last couple of years should be given top priority in the budget.

Pantry service

“Pantry car service should be made available on all Patna-bound trains as well as on those starting from Patna. Charges for vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals should be reduced. Menu/rate chart should be displayed in all compartments and food packets,” Sah said.