Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw expresses profound gratitude to 12 lakh railway employees

New Delhi, Aug 01, 2024, By Our Correspondent

Union Minister of Railways, Information and Broadcasting, Electronics, and IT, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, has replied on demands for Grants under the control of the Ministry of Railway for the financial year 2024-25 in Parliament today. In his reply address, he covered significant achievements and future plans of railways, with a focus on the dedication of railway employees, advancements in railway safety, and progress in railway electrification.Praising Railway Employees Shri Vaishnaw began by expressing heartfelt gratitude to the nearly 12 lakh railway employees who work tirelessly day and night to ensure the smooth operation of almost 20,000 trains daily. He underscored the Railways as the lifeline of the country, a vital institution upon which the nation's economy heavily relies. The Minister called upon the Parliament to depoliticize the Railways, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for its continued improvement for the nation's benefit.He also expressed his delight in receiving numerous constructive suggestions from both government and opposition MPs over the past two days. He extended his thanks to all members for their appreciation of the Railways and the commendable efforts of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.Enhancing Railway Safety Addressing railway safety, Shri Vaishnaw highlighted the significant strides made in the past decade. Over 26,52,000 ultrasonic flaw detection tests have been conducted, and several new technologies have been incorporated to enhance safety measures. That resulted remarkable reduction in rail fractures, from approximately 2,500 in 2013-14 to just 324 in 2024, marking an 85% decrease.He also highlighted the significant reduction in the average number of accidents per year, from 171 during the UPA era to a 68% decrease under the current government. However, he emphasized the continuous commitment to improving safety further.Further, He highlighted that stations now have control through electronic interlocking. While only 837 stations had this technology between 2004 and 2014, a significant increase occurred in the next decade, with 2,964 stations covered from 2014 to 2024.Advancements in Railway Electrification In terms of railway electrification, Shri Vaishnaw detailed the impressive progress made over the past decade. A total of 44,000 km has been electrified in 10 years, compared to only 20,000 km in the preceding 50 years. This electrification drive has yielded substantial benefits, including an additional 600 million tonnes of cargo, saving 640 crore litres of diesel, and reducing 400 crore kilos of CO2 emissions, equivalent to planting 16 crore trees.These milestones reflect the government's commitment to modernizing the Indian Railways, making it safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable.