Private participation in Railways

  • IASbaba
  • July 2, 2020
  • 0
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Private participation in Railways

Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Govt schemes and policies; Economy, Privatisation and Infrastructure

In news:

  • Railways kick-started the process to allow private players to operate certain trains.
  • The Ministry of Railways said this is the first initiative for private investment in running passenger trains over the Railways network, and will attract investments of about Rs. 30,000 crore.
  • It added that the objective of the initiative was to –
    • introduce modern technology
    • reduce transit time
    • reduced maintenance
    • boost job creation
    • provide enhanced safety
    • provide world class travel experience
    • reduce demand supply deficit in the passenger transportation sector

Do you know?

  • The Delhi-Lucknow Tejas is the first train that is not operated by the Indian Railways.
  • Earlier, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), which is a public sector undertaking, was entrusted with running the train. 

Additional information:

  • The Railways said “majority” of trains will be manufactured in India.
  • Private entity will be responsible for financing, procuring, operation and maintenance of the trains.
  • Trains will be designed for a maximum speed of 160 kmph.

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