PM lauds Mamata’s Rail Budget

Mamata Banerjee’s pro-poor Rail Budget 2009 won applaud on Friday from none other than Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who said the Railway Minister has done a highly competent job.

No additional burden has been added by way of increase in freight or passenger fares, the PM said. In keeping with the party’s election promises, the minister has focused on improving amenities and improving safety and security for passengers, thus making railway travel a viable experience, Dr Singh told reporters here.

She has also outlined upgradation of 50 railway stations to international standards, the PM said, adding the minister has done a commendable job considering the short time frame available to her.