Budget receives mixed reactions

Union Railway Minister Dinesh Trivedi who presented the railway budget on Wednesday received pats as well as brickbats from Puneites.

Though there was not much displeasure regarding the fare hike, the biggest disappointment is that only one new train has been introduced from Pune.

President of Maharashtra Pravasi Sangh, Hemant Tapale said, “The budget this year instead of being popular, is aimed at improving the railway system. The fare hike is welcome after 11 years. Till now, the short route trains would be extended with one or two boogies, which actually, didn’t serve any purpose as there was no maintenance.’’

‘’This year, the minister has focused on maintenance as well as forming of an independent authority for safety and security of passengers. Another welcome move is allowing passengers on the waiting list to board the following train. Pune has received a big zero in this budget. The long pending demand of having an  afternoon train between Pune-Mumbai has been ignored once again. The demand for increasing the number of trains in the rush hours has been ignored,’’ he said.