Vikrant Shekhawat : Jan 22, 2025, 09:44 AM
Union Budget 2025: Only a few days are left for the presentation of the country's general budget. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the second budget of Modi government 3.0 on February 1. There is enthusiasm among the general public and experts about this budget. Especially a big investment is expected in the budget this time on Indian Railways. It is believed that the Railways can get an allocation of up to Rs 3 lakh crore, which will be 15-20 percent more than last year. This amount will not only be used to improve the railway infrastructure but new projects will also be accelerated.Special budget proposal for railwaysIf media reports are to be believed, this time the budget can be historic for the Indian Railways. The Finance Minister can allocate a budget of Rs 2.93 lakh crore to Rs 3 lakh crore. This money will be used mainly in the following works of the railways:Upgradation of stations: Many stations will be equipped with modern facilities.Construction of new railway tracks: The target is to lay 68,000 km of new tracks by 2027.Launch of Vande Bharat and modern trains: The target is to ensure the operation of 400 Vande Bharat trains by 2027.Modern trains: 10 Vande Bharat Sleeper and 100 Amrit Bharat trains are likely to be announced in this budget.Focus on bullet train and security coverBullet train is being prominently named among the most ambitious projects of the railways. Significant allocation can also be made from the budget to speed up the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project. Along with this, the plan to install security cover in trains will also be accelerated, so that the journey can be safe and convenient.Metro projects will get supportFunds can also be allocated for metro railway projects in the budget. Work is being done on the expansion of metro network in many cities of the country, which includes the construction of new metro lines and upgrading of old networks.The general public will get these benefitsThe allocation of a large amount in the budget for railways will benefit the general public in many ways:Better passenger facilities: Facilities like modern waiting rooms, cleanliness, and cafeteria will be provided at the stations.Fast and safe travel: New railway tracks and security cover will make travel faster and safer.Operation of new trains: People will get a comfortable and timely travel experience through modern trains like Vande Bharat.Other possibilities related to the budgetApart from railways, large allocations are also expected in rural development, health, education and defense sectors in this budget. Especially, special attention can be given to infrastructure projects.ConclusionThe General Budget 2025 will not only strengthen the country's economy, but will also infuse new energy in the development of railways and other infrastructure. The potential investment on Indian Railways will not only improve the passenger experience, but will also create new employment opportunities. Now it remains to be seen how the Finance Minister lives up to the expectations of the public in the budget to be presented on February 1.