'Forget all, just watch Rail Budget'

LALU OUT TO PLEASE ALL? Railway Minister is likely to rationalise freight rates further.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN RAIL BUDGET 2007-08

Introduction of on-board entertainment on top-class trains like Shatabdi.

No increase in lower-class fares.

A/C class fares may see a slight increase.

Freight rates of essential items may be cut.

Introduction of at least 10 new trains.

Introduction of more Garib Raths.

Introduction of more Garib Raths.

Allocation for four mega bridges.

Modern facilities, eating joints at Rly stations.

Improvement of catering services on trains.

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Keywords: Lalu, Proposals

New Delhi: A day before he unveils his Rail Budget for the year 2007-08, Lalu Prasad was smiling on Sunday, like a magician about to perform a trick. And for the Railway Minister, presenting his and the UPA Government's fourth Railway Budget is nothing short of a performance.

For, Lalu Prasad has successfully managed to balance the economics of the railways with its vital social function thus far. And when he makes his speech on Monday, he will be called upon to do his balancing act once again.

“Forget everything else tomorrow. Listen to my speech when I present the Rail Budget," Lalu said in his trademark style on Sunday at the customary photo-session before the presentation of the Rail Budget.

And you'd surely want to hear him, because he is likely to tell you — as in the past years — that you won't be paying more for your train ticket. Also, the minister is likely to announce more trains, especially Garib Raths, to give low-cost airlines a run for the passenger's money.

The railways are also supposed to get more passenger-friendly this year. So, expect some on-board entertainment and mega terminals with world-class facilities

"The budget has something for everyone," Lalu assured. "Whether it’s the rich class or the poor. It has been prepared keeping in mind the concerns of everyone in the country,” he said.

Freight rates, too, are likely to be rationalised. The railways have earned over Rs 34,000 between April last year and this January from the freight sector, which was a 16 per cent jump.

And if the money continues to flow in, which it should thanks to a booming economy, the Indian Railways are all set for a long haul.