Railway Minister Defends Innovations Amidst Political Tensions

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Tuesday robustly countered opposition MPs in the Lok Sabha, challenging their allegations that the Railways no longer cater to the economically disadvantaged. Asserting that 70% of rail coaches are general class, Vaishnaw emphasized the affordability and modernization of services like the Amrut Bharat trains.

Addressing rail safety, the minister claimed a 90% reduction in accidents owing to substantial investments and the introduction of the Kavach technology. He critiqued opposition-controlled state governments for not supporting projects, all while highlighting ongoing developments such as bullet train implementations and job creation within the Railways.

Vaishnaw further outlined significant achievements under the Modi administration, including vast expansions and the shift from diesel to electric, which purportedly saved Rs 6,000 crore. He commended the merger of the railway budget with the general budget, attributing it to increased financial allocations and improved transparency.