(a) whether transportation of commodities particularly foodgrains by the Railways has been declined during the last six months;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(c) the steps being taken by the Government in this regard?
(a) whether transportation of commodities particularly foodgrains by the Railways has been declined during the last six months;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(c) the steps being taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI R. VELU)
(a) : Yes, Sir. While freight transportation of Indian Railways has increased by 9.40% (in terms
of tonnes originating) during the first seven months of the current financial year,
transportation of foodgrains has declined by 12.70% during the same period.
(b) : Reason for less transportation of foodgrains by the Railways is, primarily, reduced demand
for railway rakes by the Food Corporation of India.
(c) : Ministry of Railways has taken up the issue of less loading of foodgrains with Food
Corporation of India / Ministry of Agriculture & Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
After coordinated efforts and arrival of fresh paddy stocks, loading has already improved
substantially.