Understanding the 2020 Rail Fares Increase: A Necessity or Nanny’s Fee?
Why does the railway increase its fare from 1 January 2020? Good question. You expect a salary hike for yourself every year, right Isnt it the same for the railway, to adjust its fares at regular intervals? However, the fare hike in 2020 has affected passengers significantly.
The Justification Behind the Fare Increase
The Indian Railways, after five years of operation, decided to increase its fares. This decision is based on the railway board's efforts to improve their financial conditions, which have been in the red for quite some time. The fare hike, while noticeable, is justified considering the inflation over the last five years.
The increase in fares will certainly impact railway passengers, but the railway's dedication to providing good service remains unwavering. Passenger satisfaction is crucial for the railway's continued operation. The hike in fares is aimed at developing better infrastructure in the railway network, leading to faster trains and enhanced facilities for all passengers.
The Benefits of Infrastructure Development
The development of infrastructure in Indian railways is not just about modernizing the transport system. It also ensures better safety for passengers. There are numerous ongoing projects in India aimed at connecting villages and cities that were previously unconnected. Connecting these regions to the railway system can significantly boost development in these areas.
Indian Railways remains the most cost-effective transport mode available in the country. Passengers benefit from this service's additional facilities and comfort features at a lower cost compared to other forms of transport. The railway system also plays a crucial role in connecting small villages with big cities while ensuring the convenience and comfort of passengers.
Historical Context
To put the 2020 fare hike into perspective, you can refer to the history of past fare hikes on Google. Analyzing previous fare increases would help you understand that this is a necessary step considering the current economic conditions and rising costs.
Government's Role and Future Fare Increases
The Indian government has a unique challenge because the railway system is still in a growth phase. The government needs to create a favorable environment for the railway, its users, and potential service-takers. The recent fare increase is just a start; further increases are inevitable.
Railways operate as a human resource-intensive industry, and capital investment has been recovered multiple times. The railway's viability in India is due to a low standard of living, where employees are paid less, and passengers do not expect extensive luxuries. However, this situation cannot continue as passengers will eventually demand more comfort and quality.
Without any intervention from users, the railway system cannot improve significantly. As India continues to develop, the railway network will need to keep up with these changes. Passenger initiatives and participation are essential for the development of the railway system, ensuring a more reliable and comfortable journey for all.
Check out the history of the last fare hike on Google.