(a) whether the existing rail network is extremely over-burdened and it is insufficient for meeting the new challenges of a developing economy;
(b) if so, the measures taken by the Railways for the said purpose;
(c) whether some areas are beyond the reach of the railways due to adverse geographical conditions; and
(d) if so, the steps taken for covering the said areas so as to address the regional inequalities in economic growth?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(SHRI RAJEN GOHAIN)
(a) & (b) A number of routes on the existing network are intensively utilised and saturated. Capacity enhancement works such as Doubling, New line, Gauge Conversion, Electrification and Traffic Facility Works on busy and congested routes have been accorded high priority and given increased funds.
(c) & (d) Yes, Madam. Many remote regions have remained devoid of railway connectivity. A number of network expansion projects, even though unremunerative, have been taken up by Railways to provide connectivity to such areas.
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