(a) whether the fare of the `Palace on Wheels` luxury train has been reduced recently;
(b) if so, the percentage of reduction in fare;
(c) the time by when this reduced fare became effective;
(d) whether the reduction in fare has attracted more tourists; and
(e) if so, the occupancy before reduction and after reduction of fare?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS
AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI O. RAJAGOPAL)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) A discount of 25% of peak season tariff for the foreign tourists and a special tariff of Rs. 10,000/- per night per person for the Indian tourists have been given for the current season.
(c) The reduced fare has become effective from 2nd January 2002.
(d) Yes, Sir.
(e) The occupancy has gone up from 21% to 45% during the period.