Title - Govt to hike rail fares around winter session

The Railways ministry is all set to hike fares ahead of or during the winter session of the Parliament. Taking cognizance of poor financial condition of the railways and various stalled projects due to shortage of funds, the Railway Board has recommended hike in the fares.The Railways minister Pawan Kumar Bansal has concurred with the view of the Railway Board, however, he said the hike in fares should be in commensurate with the services extended to the passengers. The sources say that Bansal has asked the Railway Board to enhance the quality of services to the passengers and only after which the dates for fare hike may be finalised. The sources in the ministry claim that the railways is contemplating hike in fares during the winter session of the Parliament. Despite several recommendations by the Railway Board the government has sofar deferred the imminent hike in fares owing to the festive season.Earlier, the cash strapped railway ministry has sought financial assistance from the finance ministry to accelrate the completion of freight corridor, doubling of tracks, maintenance of tracks and new coaches. However, the finance ministry has not yet given any positive reply on the demands. The railway minister has finally sought immediate intereference by the UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to help manage funds for the ailing ministry. The rail minister has even expressed willingness to take financial aid from the finance ministry and repay the amount as per the provisions of loan.