Wednesday, February 27, 2008

RAILWAY BUDGET 2008-09


Railway budget 2008-2009
Railway Minister Lalu Prasad on Tuesday announced a reduction in fares in various classes and provided concessions in some categories of freight charges. Presenting his fifth consecutive Railway Budget, Mr. Prasad focused on improving passenger amenities and implementing mega investment plans for building railway infrastructure, besides announcing 53 new trains, including 10 ‘Garib Raths.’
Living up to the expectations of rail travellers, Mr. Prasad announced a five per cent reduction on second class fares beyond Rs. 50 on all categories of trains, while a Re.1 discount will be given on fares up to Rs. 50. Similarly, the fares for AC-I will be reduced by seven per cent and AC-II fares by four per cent. However, for popular trains and during peak period, the reduction will only be half as in previous years.
Keeping in mind the increased capacity of the newly designed AC-III tier and AC chair car coaches, Mr. Prasad reduced its fares by two per cent. However, the reduction will only be half for fares of popular trains.

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