Question : MODERNISATION OF RAILWAY STATIONS

(a) whether the Government is contemplating to approve the modernisation scheme of all Railway Stations in the capital and the NCR before commencement of Commonwealth Games in the capital;

(b) if so, whether this scheme is being formulated for all the stations;

(c) if not, the reasons therefor alognwith the names of the stations which are likely to be modernised;

(d) the State-wise names of the other railway stations which are likely to be modernised before the commencement of Commonwealth Games; and

(e) the station-wise details of the amount likely to be spent alongwith the facilities likely to be provided on these stations and the time by which the work is likely to be completed?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI R. VELU)

(a): No, Sir.

(b): Does not arise.

(c): There are a large number of stations in National Capital Region (NCR) including small way side stations carrying few passengers and it may not be feasible or necessary to modernize all these stations. However, major stations including Delhi, New Delhi and Hazrat Nizammuddin shall be modernized before commencement of Commonwealth Games. It is also proposed to convert New Delhi Station into a world class station, subject to availability of fund.

(d) & (e): Indian Railway has more than 8000 station on its system which are classified into various categories based on earnings etc. Modernization of the stations is an ongoing process based on the category of the station, inter-se priorities, availability of funds etc. For stations outside National Capital Region (NCR), no specific targets have been laid down for modernization of stations in connection with Commonwealth Games. Funds to the tune of Rs. 350 Crore (approximately) have been allotted for this purpose during the current financial year i.e. 2006-07 and further funds will be allotted in the coming years as required.