As recommended by the Debroy panel on the restructuring of the Indian Railways (“ >Make train services viable: panel ”, June 14), an independent, regulatory authority for the Railways is a sine qua non for the sustainability of a ‘philanthropic organisation’ and the welfare of the full fare paying passenger. Train services that run without commercial viability are a drain on the exchequer. Accountability based on a cost-benefit ratio is essential for financial health of the behemoth.
As a former member of the Ticket Checking Organisation, I can vouchsafe for the fact that only a negligible part of travellers on a train are legitimate, law-abiding citizens who pay for their comforts out of their own pockets. If the BJP government can put an end to the yearly ritual of a separate budget for the Railways, it will be a milestone in the path of progress. The Railways as a commercial enterprise will remain a perennial source of direct revenue.
Annadurai Jeeva,
Srirangam
The recommendations are bold, many of which remained so far as whispers in the corridors of power. It is, perhaps, for the first time that an official panel has suggested such revolutionary changes in the structure and working process of the Railways. The Railway Board continued to pursue the accounting method being followed in government that was a throwback from British days. The personnel working there also absorbed the spirit and tenor compatible with a purely government entity.
The Railways is now in a position where it cannot live with its own resources and income; a most unviable and undesirable position. The appointment of an independent regulator will be path-breaking for the Railways to be more efficient and responsive to the genuine needs of the users/customers as different from those of its political bosses.
K. Rajendran,
Chennai
Though extensive, the report lacks credibility. The smooth running of the Railways is achieved only after long experience and an understanding of the route conditions. It also involves looking after its employees, better management and closer coordination with the travelling public. A division of the movement of trains into passenger and mail/express services will only result in chaos as coordinated movement of both services is essential.
R. Rangarajan,
Secunderabad
