Parliamentary Panel Recommends Overhaul of Superfast Train Classification
A parliamentary panel has called for a comprehensive review of the classification criteria for superfast trains operated by Indian Railways. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), in a report tabled in Parliament, highlighted that the existing benchmark of 55 kilometers per hour (kmph) is outdated and fails to reflect modern operational capabilities.
Current Standards and Performance Gaps
Since May 2007, Indian Railways has classified trains as superfast if they maintain an average speed of at least 55 kmph on Broad Gauge and 45 kmph on Metre Gauge. However, the committee's audit revealed significant discrepancies. Out of 478 superfast trains, the scheduled speed of 123 trains was found to be below the 55 kmph threshold. This raises questions about the appropriateness of the current classification system.
The Ministry of Railways responded by noting that 47 of these 123 trains now operate above 55 kmph, while the others were initially charted to meet the criteria but have since slowed due to operational changes. The panel expressed concern that additional stoppages introduced after trains began regular operations have adversely affected average speeds, further undermining the superfast designation.
Concerns Over Fare Practices and Global Benchmarks
The committee strongly criticized the practice of maintaining superfast status for trains that no longer meet speed requirements, suggesting it may be driven by revenue considerations. It argued that trains falling below the benchmark should be reclassified and fares adjusted accordingly to ensure fairness for passengers.
Moreover, the panel emphasized that the 55 kmph benchmark is conservative and anachronistic when compared to international standards. Countries like China and Japan operate trains at speeds far exceeding this limit, with global norms often approximating 100 kmph for high-speed rail services. The committee urged Indian Railways to align its criteria with these global benchmarks to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
Recommendations for Future Improvements
In its report titled 'Punctuality and Travel Time in Train Operations in Indian Railways', the PAC made several key recommendations:
- Review and rationalize the superfast classification criteria to reflect current technological and operational advancements.
- Explore the feasibility of achieving a consistent average speed of 100 kmph across entire journeys, from origin to destination, by the year 2030.
- Ensure that speed limits set by the Ministry are strictly adhered to, and take corrective actions for trains that fail to meet designated standards.
These suggestions aim to modernize Indian Railways' operations, improve passenger experience, and foster greater accountability in train management. The panel's findings underscore the need for ongoing evaluation and adaptation in the face of evolving transportation demands.
