'Gauge conversion, new trains to boost economy'

The trade and industry in Gujarat has welcomed the Railway Budget, announced on Tuesday by the Union minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, stating that the gauge conversion plan and the provision of new trains for Gujarat will boost the state's economy.

In his budget for 2004-05, Yadav announced two new trains and commencement of a survey for conversion of narrow gauge to broad gauge. Various commerce and industrial bodies have welcomed the announcements made for Gujarat.

The minister has proposed Sampark Kranti Express linking Delhi and Ahmedabad, Jansadharan Express connecting Muzaffarpur and Ahmedabad and extension of Rajendra Nagar-Valsad Express up to Bandra.

The frequency of Jodhpur-Bangalore Express is also proposed to be increased from weekly to bi-weekly. Expansion plans for Gujarat include nod for completion of Junagadh-Veraval broadguage plan and laying a new track between Ankleshwar and Rajpipla.

Other plans include clearance for a survey for a third track between Ahmedabad and Virar and conversion of narrow guage into broad guage between Baroda and Ankleshwar, covering stations including Pratapnagar, Chhota Udepur, Viswamitri, Jambusar and Miyagam.

Chinubhai Shah, president, Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, welcomed the budget and called it a step in the right direction.

"The steps announced for modernisation of railways, security and safety of passengers, improvement in passenger amenities, scaling down of the working expenses, adoption of zero-based budgeting, expansion of railway infrastructure, expenditure control and prevention of leakage of revenue in thrust areas are appreciable," he said.

He also welcomed introduction of earthen tea cups.

Dipankar Roy, director, the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industries, welcomed the expansion plans of railways tracks and announcement of new trains.

"The minister's emphasis on security and services, the proposed gauge conversion and other measures are a step in the right direction. Small-scale and rural industries will benefit from some of the measures announced," said Roy.

However, industrial bodies suggested some measures to improve services for industry and travellers. Shah demanded early completion of the surveys proposed by the minister.

"Long-pending demands should be taken care soon. A metro train between Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar and expansion of inland container depot at Sabarmati are some demands of Gujarat and they should be fulfilled soon," said Shah.

Roy stressed on identification of loss-making operations to make railway more profitable and efficient. "Refrigeration vans should be increased to give boost to the agriculture sector, he said.