Lucknow, 18

March (HS): Minister of Railways, Communications and Electronics &

Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, while addressing the Parliament

during the Demand for Grants 2025–26, outlined several key initiatives and

developmental plans aimed at strengthening Indian Railways and enhancing

passenger experience across the country.

During his

address, the Minister specifically emphasized the ongoing and planned

development of Prayagraj Railway Station as a major hub under the station

redevelopment programme. He highlighted that this transformation has gained

significant momentum in recent years under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime

Minister, marking an unprecedented phase of development for the station. The

station is being upgraded with modern infrastructure, improved passenger

amenities, enhanced accessibility, and better crowd management systems to cater

to the increasing footfall, especially during major religious and cultural

events.

The

Minister also informed the House about the proposed Delhi–Varanasi High-Speed

Rail Corridor (Bullet Train Project), which is expected to significantly reduce

travel time and boost regional connectivity. He noted that this corridor will

play a crucial role in promoting economic growth, tourism, and faster mobility

between key cities in North India. Further,

Ashwini Vaishnaw underlined the Government’s commitment to improving cleanliness

standards across all railway zones, with a special focus on general coaches.

He stated

that a comprehensive master plan is being developed and implemented across all

zones to ensure systematic cleaning of general coaches, supported by enhanced

monitoring mechanisms, improved onboard housekeeping services, and passenger

awareness initiatives to provide a cleaner and more comfortable travel

experience for all sections of passengers.

The

initiatives highlighted during the Demand for Grants reflect Indian Railways’

continuous efforts towards modernization, improved service quality, and

passenger-centric development.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi