Improving Efficiency in Indian Railways: Priorities and Considerations

Indian Railways play a crucial role in the country's transportation infrastructure, yet there are significant areas where improvements are essential. One of the critical aspects is the uneven development and lack of uniformity in various states, leading to disparities in service quality and efficiency. This article highlights key areas where Indian Railways should focus to enhance their productivity and overall service.

Tackling Uneven Development and Statewise Disparities

One of the most notable issues is the lack of parity in the development of railways across different states. For instance, Kerala, despite its scenic routes and lengthy travel times, often faces delays and underdeveloped infrastructure. This disparity is exacerbated by the division of power among state railway authorities under the Southern Railway region, which is headquartered in Chennai. Tamil Nadu, on the other hand, witnesses fewer delays and a more advanced railway network. This uneven development not only affects service quality but also reflects poorly on the overall performance of Indian Railways.

To address this issue, it is imperative to consider creating separate divisions or bringing all under a single division directly monitored by the Central Government. Such a restructuring would ensure that all states receive equal attention and resources, leading to a more efficient and harmonious railway network. The Central Government can better coordinate and manage resources to ensure timely completion of projects, such as new lines and double lines, and to maintain a more consistent standard of railway infrastructure.

Creating a More Productive Railway Network

The current system often results in delayed services, which contribute to poor CAG (Comptroller and Auditor General) reports. While a certain amount of time allowance can be justified to account for unexpected delays, the significant disparity in travel times compared to actual journey times is a major concern. The extra time allotted often benefits the system's financial and reporting aspects but comes at the cost of disgruntled commuters who face delays and inconvenience. Therefore, it is crucial to focus on improving efficiency and reducing unnecessary delays.

Commuters have visited various states, yet only Kerala stands out as having stringent ticket-checking protocols. However, despite these efforts, Kerala's railway development lags behind other states, which raises questions about the effectiveness of the current segmentation and monitoring systems. This situation necessitates a more comprehensive and centralized approach to ensure that all states contribute to the same standard of service quality.

Eliminating Unnecessary Concessions and Promoting Fairness

Apart from addressing developmental disparities, another area of concern is the presence of travel concessions for specific groups, including serving and retired railway employees. While such concessions are often justified for their service to the railway system, it is essential to reevaluate the number and scope of these concessions. Currently, as many as 35 different concessions exist, which can lead to inefficiencies and financial burdens on the railway system.

I urge the railway authorities to stop all unnecessary travel concessions. This move would not only reduce financial expenditures but also promote a more equitable and transparent system. Even the railway minister should be made to pay for travel, similar to other passengers. This step would signify a shift towards a more professional and accountable organizational culture, ensuring that all stakeholders, including government officials, follow the same rules and contribute fairly.

Conclusion

Improving the efficiency and overall performance of Indian Railways requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes addressing statewise disparities, streamlining operations through better central oversight, and eliminating unnecessary concessions. By focusing on these areas, Indian Railways can achieve greater productivity and better service quality, ensuring that all its passengers, regardless of their state of origin, receive the same level of care and attention.