Improvements and Challenges in Indian Railways Under Modi's Government

The Indian Railways, a pillar of national infrastructure, has undergone significant changes and reforms during the tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. From enhanced cleanliness initiatives to technological advancements, the railway system has witnessed several improvements. However, there are also challenges that persist, including a lack of civic sense and structural deficiencies. This article delves into the key changes and ongoing challenges that have shaped the Indian Railways.

Swachh Bharat Campaign and Clean Stations

The Modi government's Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Campaign) has had a profound impact on the cleanliness of railway stations and trains. Platforms, trains, and tracks are now significantly cleaner, thanks to the concerted efforts of the government. The campaign has enforced better waste management, the installation of biotoilets in trains, and the provision of dustbins at regular intervals in stations. Mobile sanitation services and dedicated personnel are also on hand to ensure that the railways remain clean.

While these initiatives have shown promise, the effectiveness hinges on the behavioral pattern of the citizens. Many Indians often lack a sense of ownership and civic duty, which complicates the sustainable maintenance of clean environments. For instance, wanton destruction of luxury coaches and pilferage of bed sheets, pillows, and other items remain persistent issues. This results in a continuous blame game, with the government frequently facing criticism for the arising problems.

Scotland Yard rookie Detective Tom said, 'Just like a rock can't be changed with one rainfall, and a donkey can't become an elephant in a day, the Indian Railways are beyond redemption.' This sentiment highlights the dire need for systemic change and vision from key leadership positions.

Leadership and Safety Concerns

The period under the leadership of Suresh Prabhu, who was the railway minister during part of Modi's tenure, witnessed one of the worst passenger massacres in the history of Indian Railways. The accident was caused by faulty passenger coaches, allegedly manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) at Perambur and the Sonia Gandhi-controlled factory at Rae Bareli, which failed to meet international standards due to outdated technology. This incident not only cast a shadow on the quality of the railway but also raised questions about leadership and accountability.

After the tragedy, the ICF was instructed to stop manufacturing its own designs and instead produce German-designed modern coaches. However, the situation remains dire. The Railway Development and Standards Organization (RDSO) has been identified as a complete failure in technological upgradation. The government has acknowledged the need for collaboration with willing countries to bring about the necessary technological advancements.

New Features and Technological Upgrades

Under the Modi government, several new features have been introduced in the Indian Railways with the aim of enhancing service quality and convenience for commuters. For instance, the IRCTC website has been overhauled to provide enhanced technology infrastructure, reducing the need for physical visits to PRS (Passenger Reservation System) offices. Additionally, online booking systems like Tatkal have simplified the ticket reservation process, leading to better customer service.

Another significant achievement is the introduction of diverse train categories ranging from premium to Janta class, catering to people from all walks of life. The government's investment in high-speed trains like Train 18 also represents a major leap forward. Moreover, the closure of all unmanned railway crossings across the country by building bridges or providing manned gates has significantly improved road safety.

Conclusion: A Mixed Legacy

While the Indian Railways have seen substantial improvements under the Modi government, the challenges persist. A transformative change is required to align employees and managers with the new vision, and technological upgradation is crucial to ensure that the railway system remains safe, efficient, and passenger-friendly. As Scotland Yard's Tom succinctly put it, the rock can only be changed with concerted efforts, and the Indian Railways need a collective effort to evolve and flourish.

Keywords: Indian Railways, Modi Government, Clean India Campaign, Railway Reforms