(a) whether the Government have recently conducted any survey to identify the non-profitable rail-routes;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether rail services on these routes are going to be withdrawn;
(d) if so, whether withdrawal of rail services on those routes is likely to have adverse
impact on the development of those areas; and
(e) the reaction of the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BANDARU DATTATRAYA)
(a) & (b) `No, Sir.` However, a review of financial results is undertaken every year to
identify the Uneconomic Branch Lines run by the Indian Railways. There were 115
Uneconomic Branch Lines and 11 New Lines, which incurred an aggregate loss of Rs.
511.91 crores during 2000-01.
(c) to (e) Based on the recommendations of various Committees, which have studied this
problem, the Railways take action to close such lines. Since 1985 till 1999-2000, 21 such
lines have been closed as per the details given in the Appendix. These lines are closed
after taking into account all relevant factors including availability of alternative roads and
road transport services. Concurrence of the State Government is also obtained before a
decision is taken to close down the Uneconomic lines and rail services thereof.