Residents give a thumbs up,hope promises turn into reality

Manish Kumari,a 22-year-old nurse who works in Sector 22 said,“Safety issues should be seriously looked at. It becomes really tough when I have to travel by train for 7-8 hours to go to my hometown in Rajasthan. I hope that the proposed plan to increase the number of Railway Protection Force (RPF) women officials is implemented immediately.” On being asked about the helpline number being launched,she said,“I hope it works and remains active all the time”.

Considering the demands of young passengers,the railway minister has announced the extension of wi-fi facility to several trains. Also,the minister ensured availability of real time information,which will facilitate SMS alerts,to the passengers by December 2013.

The Indian Railways are the third largest in the world,but problems of poor sanitation,women safety,over-crowded coaches and huge rush for tatkaal reservation continue to worry passengers. Priyanka Dhiman (26),another nurse said,“It is uncomfortable to travel in filthy trains. Lets see how the budget pays heed to our demand regarding cleanliness”.

Buta Singh (65),a retired Punjab government official said,“Most trains are over crowded. No doubt that passenger traffic has increased by 5 per cent,so the number of trains should also be increased”.

“The budget seems quite people-friendly,as no fares have been hiked. I hope that whatever has been presented gets implemented too,” said Paramjeet Singh (49),a government employee.