Date:04/07/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/07/04/stories/2009070451220200.htm

Tamil Nadu - Thanjavur

Railway budget gets applause

Special Correspondent

THANJAVUR: The Thanjavur Chamber of Industries and Commerce has welcomed the Railway Budget presented by Minister Mamata Banerjee in the Lok Sabha on Friday.

“We are happy to note that there is no hike in passenger and freight charges. This is a welcome move,” said Mr. K. R. Annamalai, president of the chamber and K. Padamanabhan, its secretary, in a press release issued here on Friday.

Tatkal period reduction

The chamber has also welcomed the reduction of Tatkal period to two days and Tatkal charges to Rs. 100.

Other positive features of the budget are introduction of point to point trains to Delhi from other places, doctors at call in long distance trains and ladies’ special which is a new concept.

The Railway Minister has said that pending gauge conversions would be completed soon.

“Though she has not mentioned the main line gauge conversion between Mayiladuturai and Villupuram, we hope that it will also be completed soon like other gauge conversions. “

All Traders’ Association at Kumbakonam also welcomed the budget for its people-friendly nature, introduction of railway passes, and reduction of tatkal period and charges.

Guage conversion

However, it expressed concern over the absence of mention of the main line gauge conversion and introduction of trains from Kumbakonam to Chennai till the gauge conversion is over.

“Anyway, the Railway Minister has said that pilgrim centres will get importance. Kumbakonam stands to gain from this announcement,” said V. Satyanarayana, secretary of the Association.