(a) whether at present, 80 per cent of coaches in service are old and if so, the details in this regard;
(b) whether the Railways is not only launching new trains but also refurbishing old coaches and if so, the details thereof;
(c) the expenditure incurred/likely to be incurred thereon;
(d) whether any target has been fixed by the Government in this regard; and
(e) if so, the details thereof and the plan prepared and the progress made so far in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(SHRI RAJEN GOHAIN)
(a): No, Madam. Replacement of in-service coaches from trains on age-cum-condition basis is a continual process.
(b): Indian Railways (IR) carries out the work of refurbishing of coaches in order to provide better interiors, ambience and amenities, including inter alia, new seats / berths, improved lighting, upgraded toilets, mobile charging points, etc.
(c) to (e): Refurbishment of in-service coaches is a continual effort of IR and sanction for funds is accordingly being asked from time to time. Sanction is available at present for the refurbishing of 7,200 coaches, at a total sanctioned cost of ? 2041.8 crore, which is being operated in a phased manner.
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