Historic Railway Safety Boost: Over Rs 1 Lakh Crore Annual Investment

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced significant investment for railway safety and infrastructure, surpassing previous allocations. The Railways (Amendment) Bill 2024 aims to decentralize power and enhance organizational efficiency. Opposition criticized continued resource limitations, urging further modernization and recruitment efforts.

In a notable policy shift, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has declared safety as the highest priority for the nation's railways, with a financial commitment exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore annually for technological upgrades and safety mechanisms.

During discussions on the Railways (Amendment) Bill 2024 in the Rajya Sabha, Vaishnaw highlighted the government's achievements in reducing accidents and streamlining processes. Despite the significant investment, opposition members raised concerns over continued resource constraints and workforce vacancies.

The legislation, now passed by both houses, seeks to enhance the functioning of the railways through infrastructural modernization and decentralized management. Key reforms include empowering local managers and the formation of an independent regulator to ensure fair pricing and competitiveness.

(With inputs from agencies.)