Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh hailed the Railway Budgettoday terming it as a "public interest budget".
"Therailwaybudgetfocuses on providing amenities to passengers and developing infrastructure across the country. This isa public interest budget," Singh said in a statement.
Congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu, the Chief Minister said, "There was no increase in fares and freight charges which is a great relief to the people."
"The Budget caters to all sections of the passengers. The investment in the sector has been doubled which will develop the infrastructure and railways network," he added.
Several other provisions like toll-free helpline number for women passengers, insurance to passengers, mobile chargers in general bogies, GPS facility, additional compartments in long-distance trains, 'AsthaRail' circuit for pilgrims will serve common man, Singh said.
"Besides, Mr (Suresh) Prabhu has also laid stress on the skill development in the Railways which is a positive step," Singh said expressing hope the Budget will be benefit all.
Meanwhile, Chhattisgarh Congress criticised the Budget saying it reflects the corporate vision of the NDA government.
"Common people have already been bearing the brunt of hike in passengers fare, tatkal and premium tatkal fare hike since 2015-16. It is surprising the government is now making hollow claims of not increasing the passenger train fares," Chhattisgarh Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel said.
"This Budget clearly reflects the corporate vision of
BJP-led NDA government as for rich class bullet trains and three new AC trains have been introduced - Uday, Hamsafar and Tejas while only one train announced for the common people that is an unreserved Antyoday express," Baghel added.
Accusing the Centre of ignoring Chhattisgarh, the Congress leader said Minister (Suresh) Prabu overlooked allocation of funds for three key projects in the state - Rowghat rail project, three-lining of Howrah-Mumbai route, Raipur-Visakhapattnam route double-lining and electrification.
