(a) whether the Government is planning to standardize trains in terms of number of coaches so that all trains can run on all routes;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether this will lead to any excess financial burden to Railways and if so, the details thereof;
(d) whether the Railways has selected any routes or trains for the purpose on a pilot basis; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(SHRI RAJEN GOHAIN)
(a) to (e) Rationalization of rakes is an on-going process over Indian Railways and, inter-alia, is aimed at improving utilization of coaching stock, ensuring punctual running of trains, releasing maintenance slots and improving turn-around time.
Besides operational feasibility, the rationalization of rakes in terms of composition is done keeping in view traffic pattern and nature of services.
In some cases, investment may be needed for up-gradation of infrastructural facilities like lengthening of platform/pit line etc.
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