21 May,2009 02:58 PM IST | | PTI
Beating the economic slowdown with increased freight loading and passenger earnings while keeping the operating ratio in control would be the key challenges before the new railway minister.
Enhancing the capacity of rolling stock including gauge conversion, doubling and laying new lines, acquisition of new coaches and wagons are some of the priorities the new ministry is expected to pursue.
"Work on the Dedicated Freight Corridor project and ensuring its funding from JBIC, World Bank and ADB will have to be taken up in right earnest," said a senior official in the Railway Board.
Keeping the terror threat perception in mind, the upgradation of security system at railway stations in major cities will be a focus area for the new government.
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Railways have often drawn flak from passengers for the low quality food being served and the unhygenic conditions prevailing in trains and platforms.
"Some drastic measures need to be taken to improve passenger amenities like food quality and cleanliness in trains," said the official.
The operating ratio is projected at 88 per cent and the ministry has to maintain it, said the official.
