(a) the manner in which the cost of food items was adjusted in Rajdhani/Shatabdi trains
in view of price rise during the last three years;
(b) whether the train fare has been increased in this regard;
(c) whether any proposal is under considerations with regard to provide drinking water pouches
on concessional rates to the lower income group passengers of unreserved second class; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI K.H. MUNIYAPPA)
(a): Catering charges for Rajdhani/Duronto/Shatabdi Express trains are fixed by the Railway Board duly
considering the cost of raw material, packaging, overhead charges. Further the overhead charges comprise
the cost of fuel, staff, element of taxes, licence fee and escalation of prices etc. to meet the increase
in costs. The present prices take care of the price rise which has taken place in last three years.
(b): No, Madam.
(c) and (d): No, Madam. As per the announcement made by the Hon’ble MR, in the Railway Budget Speech
of 2010-11, six bottling plants through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) route at Ambala, Amethi,
Mal, Nasik, Farakka and Cheriyanad have been planned to be set up with the mandate that bottled fresh
water will be provided at stations at affordable rates.