railways on environment: rajya sabha 2012-13wwfenvis.nic.in/files/environment in the indian...

Railways on Environment: Rajya Sabha 2012-13

Q. No. Q. Type Date Ans by Ministry

Members Title of the Questions

Subject Specific Political Party

State Representative

1213 Unstarred 23.03.2012 Railways Dr. Prabha Thakur

Cleanliness at platforms and in trains Health and Sanitation INC Rajasthan

1234 Unstarred 23.03.2012 Railways Shri Mohammed Adeeb

Equipment to maintain speed of trains during fog

Climate Change and Meteorology IND. Uttar Pradesh

Pollution

2597 Unstarred 27.04.2012 Railways Shri Piyush Goyal

Reducing carbon emissions from running trains

Climate Change and Meteorology BJP Maharashtra

Pollution

2611 Unstarred 27.04.2012 Railways Shri Baishnab Parida Installing fire and smoke alarm system Disaster Management BJD Odisha

3227 Unstarred 04.05.2012 Railways Shri D. Bandyopadhyay Enhancing safety standards Disaster Management AITC West Bengal

Health and Sanitation 3998 Unstarred 11.05.2012 Railways Shri Baishnab Parida Green toilets Health and Sanitation BJD Odisha

Pollution

4801 Unstarred 18.05.2012 Railways Shri T.M. Selvaganapathi

Use of solar energy in train coaches

Alternative Technologies DMK Tamil Nadu

Energy Studies 895 Unstarred 17.08.2012 Railways Dr. Prabha Thakur Sanitation services Health and Sanitation INC Rajasthan

Pollution

916 Unstarred 17.08.2012 Railways Dr. K.P. Ramalingam Bio-toilets in trains Environmental Conservation DMK Tamil Nadu

Health and Sanitation Pollution

1524 Unstarred 24.08.2012 Railways Shri Shadi Lal Batra Eco-friendly toilets in trains

Environmental Conservation INC Haryana

Health and Sanitation Pollution

1526 Unstarred 24.08.2012 Railways Shri Veer Singh Passenger amenities Health and Sanitation BSP Uttar Pradesh

at Moradabad railway station

Pollution Water Management

1547 Unstarred 24.08.2012 Railways Shri Motilal Vora

Unsafe drinking water at railway stations Health and Sanitation INC Chhattisgarh


2297 Unstarred 31.08.2012 Railways Shri Dilip Kumar Tirkey

Railway electrification projects Energy Studies BJD Odisha

2308 Unstarred 31.08.2012 Railways Shri Ashk Ali Tak

Guidelines to provide basic amenities at railway stations Health and Sanitation INC Rajasthan


*389 Starred 07.09.2012 Railways Smt. T. Ratna Bai Introducing bio toilets in trains

Environmental Conservation INC

Andhra Pradesh

Health and Sanitation

268 Unstarred 23.11.2012 Railways Shri Husain Dalwai Setting up of thermal power plants

Alternative Technologies INC Maharashtra

Energy Studies 275 Unstarred 23.11.2012 Railways Smt. Vasanthi Stanley Rail Tariff Authority Health and Sanitation DMK Tamil Nadu

Shri Sanjay Raut Water Management SS Maharashtra

278 Unstarred 23.11.2012 Railways Shri Jugul Kishore Railway projects in Uttar Pradesh EIA BSP Uttar Pradesh

Energy Studies

*118 Starred 30.11.2012 Railways Shri C.M. Ramesh Bio-toilets in trains Environmental Conservation TDP

Andhra Pradesh

Health and Sanitation

880 Unstarred 30.11.2012 Railways Shri Natuji Halaji Thakor

Complaints regarding cleanliness and water etc. Health and Sanitation BJP Gujarat

Pollution

891 Unstarred 30.11.2012 Railways Shri Prabhat Jha Manual scavenging in Railways Health and Sanitation BJP

Madhya Pradesh

Smt. Kusum Rai Pollution BJP Uttar Pradesh

Shri Arvind Kumar Singh SP Uttar Pradesh

892 Unstarred 30.11.2012 Railways Shri Kanwar Deep Singh

Clearances for railway over-bridge projects EIA AITC Jharkhand

908 Unstarred 30.11.2012 Railways Shri N.K. Singh Fog safety devices Climate Change and Meteorology JD(U) Bihar

Dr. Janardhan Waghmare Health and Sanitation NCP Maharashtra

Pollution

913 Unstarred 30.11.2012 Railways Shri Sanjay Raut Scarcity of packaged water Water Management SS Maharashtra

926 Unstarred 30.11.2012 Railways Shri Naresh Agrawal Cost escalation due to delays EIA SP Uttar Pradesh

1661 Unstarred 07.12.2012 Railways Dr. T. Subbarami Reddy

Railway network in seismic zones Disaster Management INC

Andhra Pradesh

1662 Unstarred 07.12.2012 Railways Smt. Maya Singh Delay of trains due to fog

Climate Change and Meteorology BJP

Madhya Pradesh

Pollution

1668 Unstarred 07.12.2012 Railways Shri Jugul Kishore

Accidents involving elephants and other animals Wildlife Management BSP Uttar Pradesh

1673 Unstarred 07.12.2012 Railways Shri Raghunandan Sharma Railway projects EIA BJP

Madhya Pradesh

Forest Conservation

1700 Unstarred 07.12.2012 Railways Sardar Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa

Railway projects pending for approval EIA SAD Punjab

2458 Unstarred 14.12.2012 Railways Shri Kumar Deepak Das

Railway bridge over Brahmaputra river

Freshwater and Marine Conservation AGP Assam

2462 Unstarred 14.12.2012 Railways Shri A.V. Swamy Deaths at unmanned railway crossings Wildlife Management IND. Odisha

CLEANLINESS AT PLATFORMS AND IN TRAINS 23rd March, 2012 RSQ 1213 DR. PRABHA THAKUR

(a) whether Railways have taken note of the increasing filthiness in railway toilets and coaches along with the increasing number of rats and cockroaches;

(b) whether the work of cleaning the platform and trains has been given to private companies or contractors, if so, whether there has been any improvement in cleanliness; and

(c) if not, the effective action Railways propose to take in respect of cleanliness of toilets etc. in trains and at platforms and the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) (a): Indian Railways take various steps to improve the cleanliness of toilets at stations as well as in the coaches. The steps taken include mechanised cleaning. Inspections by various officials at the railway stations to monitor cleanliness and take remedial measures are conducted regularly. Besides, intensive cleaning of coaches is done during the maintenance. In addition, enroute cleaning of coaches at select stations and on board cleaning on important trains is also done. To control menace of cockroaches and rats, all the coaches are given pest and rodent control treatment through professional agencies and regular inspections are carried out at different levels. Improvement in the standard of cleanliness on Indian Railways is a continuous process. (b) & (c): At some stations, Indian Railways have outsourced cleanliness related activities like mechanized cleaning, rag picking, garbage disposal, one time cleaning etc. on contract basis to improve the cleanliness standards at railway stations. Public toilets at major railway stations have been brought under the ‘Pay & Use’ scheme with the participation of the private sector. Some coach cleaning activities like mechanised cleaning of coaches in the coaching depots, On Board House Keeping Services (OBHS) in Rajdhani/Shatabdi/Duronto and important Mail/Express trains, limited mechanised cleaning attention to identified trains during their scheduled stoppage enroute at “Clean Train Stations (CTS)” and comprehensive pest and rodent control treatment in coaching depots have been outsourced to professional agencies. These measures have helped Indian Railways in ensuring cleanliness at railway stations and maintenance of toilets along with cleanliness in coaches. EQUIPMENT TO MAINTAIN SPEED OF TRAINS DURING FOG 23rd March, 2012 RSQ 1234 SHRI MOHAMMED ADEEB

(a) whether it is a fact that Railways have come up with an equipment to ensure that the trains don’t slow down because of fog; and

(b) if so, by when these equipments would be operational? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) (a) & (b): No, Sir. However, a Global Positioning System (GPS) based Fog safe device has been developed which displays name of approaching signs and other critical landmarks in advance even during poor visibility condition. It is expected to help reduce stress on Loco Pilots while running trains in foggy weather. This device is not a safety system but an aid to loco pilot to reduce stress during running of trains in foggy weather. Its proliferation on a large scale is still subject to confirmatory trials & development of reliable sources. REDUCING CARBON EMISSIONS FROM RUNNING TRAINS 27th April, 2012 RSQ 2597

SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL

(a) whether Government plans to reduce carbon emissions from running trains; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) if not, the reasons therefor; (d) the details of fuel consumed per annum by Railways; and (e) the expenditure incurred by Government every year in this effort?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) (a) Yes, Sir. (b) Indian Railways have taken up a clean diesel project, to reduce the emissions from diesel locomotives and to bring them in consonance with the international emission standards. As part of the project, an initial feasibility study has been completed. Phase II of the project for developing a prototype system for a locomotive is under process. (c) Does not arise. (d) Indian Railways consumes about 2.5 billion litres of diesel annually. (e) A Work for ` 4.39 crores has been sanctioned for Consultancy for reduction of exhaust emissions from diesel locos of Indian Railways. INSTALLING FIRE AND SMOKE ALARM SYSTEM 27th April, 2012 RSQ 2611 SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

(a) whether it is proposed to install fire and smoke alarms in the running trains to serve as a warning to the travelling public with a view to save their lives;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the details of trains where the above system has been installed; and (d) the action plan to cover all passenger trains in the entire railway network with the above system?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) (a) Yes, Sir. It is proposed to install fire and smoke alarms in running trains to serve as warning to travelling public in case of fire emergency. (b) Fire and smoke detection system has been installed as a trial on one rake of New Delhi-Bhubaneswar Rajdhani rake as a pilot project. Initial trial has been completed and based on the results of these trials, technical specification of the fire and smoke detection system is under revision. Extended field trials are planned further on representative population of coaches. (c) The system has been installed on one rake of New Delhi- Bhubaneswar Rajdhani Express on trial. (d) After completion of extended field trials further proliferation will be considered. ENHANCING SAFETY STANDARDS 4th May, 2012 RSQ 3227 SHRI D. BANDYOPADHYAY:

(a) whether an expert group on modernisation of Railways was set up under the chairmanship of Dr. Sam Pitroda; (b) if so, whether it has submitted its report; and

(c) the main recommendations of the group, particularly relating to safety in the railway system and the action initiated

to enhance the safety standards of Railways? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS ( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI ) (a) &(b): The Ministry of Railways constituted an Expert Group for Modernization of Indian Railways on 21.09.2011 under the Chairmanship of Shri Sam Pitroda. The Group has submitted its report on 27.02.2012. (c): The Group has made 113 specific recommendations pertaining to modernization of tracks and bridges, signaling systems, rolling stock, stations and terminals, Public-Private Partnership initiatives, utilization of land and airspace, construction of Dedicated Freight Corridors, High-Speed Passenger Corridors, expeditious implementation of ‘priority’ projects, harnessing Information & Communication Technology and Safety. The recommendations on ‘Safety’ include:(i) Deploy latest track machines for mechanized maintenance of track, (ii) Install wheel impact load detectors, (iii) Modernize and renovate railway workshops, (iv) Equip trains and Train Protection Warning Systems(TPWS), (v) Install vehicle borne digitized and recordable ultrasonic flaw detectors to cover the entire railway system, (vi) Eliminate unmanned level crossings by manning, closure, merger, construction of over bridges and underpasses, (vii) Upgrade coaching depots, (viii) Upgrade disaster management facilities & related Services, (ix) Upgrade Network Management Centers and (x) Use Social networks/cameras/Videos and other new tools and technologies extensively for safety & Security. All possible steps are undertaken on a continuous basis to prevent accidents and to enhance safety. These include timely replacement of over-aged assets, adoption of suitable technologies for upgradation and maintenance of track, rolling stock, signaling and interlocking systems, etc. to ensure reliability of assets. GREEN TOILETS 11th May, 2012 RSQ 3998 SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

(a) whether it is proposed to launch green toilets in passenger coaches in various long distance and other trains; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the details of long distance trains that have since been covered; (d) the time-frame within which all such trains are proposed to be covered; (e) whether such facilities would also be developed on railway stations and other railway premises; and (f) the action plan for the East Coast Railway in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) (a) Yes, Sir. (b) & (c) Bio-toilets are running in following trains (partially): 1. Guwahati - Chennai Egmore Express 2. Gwalior - Varanasi Bundelkhand Express 3. Gwalior – Indore Intercity Express 4. Jammu Tawi – Indore Malwa Express 5. Lucknow – Mumbai CSTM Pushpak Express 6. Mumbai – Varanasi Mahanagri Express 7. New Delhi – Rewa Express 8. Nizamuddin – Indore Express. At present, a total of 465 bio-toilets are in service, most of which are based on Indian Railway-Defence Research & Development Organisation (IR-DRDO) technology. (d) Based on experience, decision will be taken from time to time. Preliminary estimates, based on a median approach, suggest elimination of induction of new coaches with direct discharge system in next five years provided no technical setback is experienced in the development and induction process and sufficient funds are available. (e) At present, there is no such proposal to develop green toilets at Railway Stations and other Railway premises.

(f) Does not arise. USE OF SOLAR ENERGY IN TRAIN COACHES 18th May, 2012 RSQ 4801 SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI

(a) whether it is a fact that Railways have decided to use solar energy for train coaches; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that Railways have conducted experimental trials in this regard; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) (a) & (b): Yes, Sir. Three coaches with solar lighting system are under trial. On evaluation of trial further study of economic viability will be undertaken. (c) & (d): Solar lighting based train lighting system has been provided in two narrow gauge coaches plying on Pathankot-Jogindernagar Route in Kangra Valley section and one narrow gauge coach plying on Kalka-Shimla section on trial basis. SANITATION SERVICES 17th August, 2012 RSQ 895 DR. PRABHA THAKUR

(a) whether Government has entrusted sanitation services of toilets in trains and toilets and platforms of railway stations to private companies; and

(b) if so, the details of such train routes and since when this arrangement has been made along with the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) (a) & (b): For improving the standards of cleanliness, hygiene and sanitation in toilets in trains and at stations, in addition to utilization of departmental resources, cleaning activity is also being carried out through outsourcing to Professional Agencies. Such activities have been outsourced by Zonal Railways on trains, stations etc. on various train routes as per local requirements for the past several years. BIO TOILETS IN TRAINS 17th August, 2012 RSQ 916 DR K.P.RAMALINGAM

(a) whether it is a fact that Railways are considering installation of bio-toilets in all remaining trains;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether it is also a fact that at present only nine trains with 436 coaches are fitted with bio-toilets; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) (a) & (b) Yes, Sir. Based on the experience gained and results of the trials, it is planned to induct Bio-Toilets progressively in the other trains. (c) Nine trains are presently provided with 504 bio toilets. (d) Bio-toilets are provided in following nine trains: • Gwalior-Varanasi Bundelkhand Express, 11107/08 • Chennai-Guwahati Egmore Express, 15629/30 • Indore-Gwalior Express, 11125/26 • Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express, 12533/34 • Indore-Jammu Tawi Malwa Express, 12919/20 • Nizamuddin-Indore Express, 12415/16 • Mumbai-Varanasi Mahanagri Express, 11093/94 • Kochuveli-Bangalore Express, 16315/16 • New Delhi-Rewa Express, 12427/28 ECO FRIENDLY TOILETS IN TRAINS 24th August, 2012 RSQ 1524 SHRI SHADI LAL BATRA

(a) whether Railways propose to introduce eco-friendly toilets in trains which do not allow refuse to fall on the tracks;


(c) if not, the reasons therefor; and

(d) the likely expenditure and time by when such toilets are to be introduced ? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) (a) & (b) Yes, Sir. So far nine trains are provided with 504 bio toilets for in-service trials. Based on the experience gained and outcome of these trials, it is planned to induct eco-friendly toilets progressively in the trains. (c) Does not arise. (d) The investment required and time frame for their full scale adoption will depend upon the changes necessitated from time to time due to the exigencies of their usage pattern and other service conditions. PASSENGER AMENITIES AT MORADABAD RAILWAY STATION 24th August, 2012 RSQ 1526 SHRI VEER SINGH

(a) whether passenger amenities at Moradabad railway station in Uttar Pradesh are inadequate; and

(b) if so, the steps taken by Government for providing adequate passenger amenities at this station ? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) (a) & (b): No, Sir. However, provision, improvement and augmentation of facilities at a station is a continuous process.

UNSAFE DRINKING WATER AT RAILWAY STATIONS 24th August, 2012 RSQ 1547 SHRI MOTILAL VORA

(a) the names of those railways stations, particularly the ones situated in metro cities, where water supplied by Railways was not found to be fit for consumption;

(b) the steps being taken by Government to supply pure drinking water to railway passengers;

(c) whether Government would also make arrangements for monthly testing of drinking water being made available at the stations;

(d) If so, by when; and

(e) If not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARAT SINH SOLANKI) (a)to (c) Drinking water, which is suitably treated before consumption is, supplied at all the Railway Stations. Regular monitoring of water quality is done through testing for residual chlorine every day at all the major stations of Indian Railways including metro cities and periodically in all other stations. Bacteriological tests are also done at all the stations. Suitable corrective action is initiated immediately wherever unsatisfactory samples are detected. The list of stations lying within jurisdiction of metro cities where unsatisfactory samples were detected as some point of time is at Annexure A. (d) Does not arise. (e) Does not arise ANNEXURE A Appendix referred to in reply to Part (a) of the Unstarred Question No.1547 asked by Sh.Motilal Vora, to be answered in Rajya Sabha on 24.08.2012 regarding unsafe drinking water at Railway Stations. LIST OF STATIONS IN METRO CITIES WHERE WATER SUPPLIED BY RAILWAYS WAS FOUND UNFIT AT SOME POINT OF TIME IN THE CURRENT YEAR. Ahmedabad - Sabarmati and Ahmedabad Bangalore – Bangalore City. Kolkatta - Howrah, and Bandel. Mumbai - Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus Mumbai, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, Matunga, and Kurla. New Delhi- Hazrat Nizamudin, Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi Sarai Rohilla, Anand Vihar Terminal. RAILWAY ELECTRIFICATION PROJECTS 31st August, 2012 RSQ 2297 SHRI DILIP KUMAR TIRKEY Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:

by when the Ministry would take up the electrification work of Vizianagaram-Rayagada-Damanjodi, Angul-Sambalpur-Jharsuguda B.G. Rail Link, and Haridaspur-Paradeep B.G. Rail link to bring train operation of single track system? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) Vizianagaram-Rayagada-Singapur Road is part of Vizianagaram-Rayagada-Raipur sanctioned electrification project. Preparatory works have been taken up. At present, there is no proposal to electrify Singapur Road-Damanjodi section as the electrification of railway tracks is decided based on financial viability, traffic volumes and operational flexibility. Electrification of Angul-Sambalpur-Jharsuguda has been included in Rail Budget 2012-13 and preliminary works are being taken up. Electrification work of Haridaspur-Paradeep rail line is in progress alongwith new rail line work. GUIDELINES TO PROVIDE BASIC AMENITIES AT RAILWAY STATIONS 31st August, 2012 RSQ 2308 SHRI ASHK ALI TAK (a) whether it is a fact that there are no arrangements for drinking water, dustbins and basic amenities at many railway stations; (b) if so, the action Government would take for providing basic amenities by issuing guidelines in this regard; and (c) if so, by when? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI) (a): No, Sir. Provision, improvement and augmentation of amenities including drinking water, dustbins etc. at the stations is a continuous process. (b) & (c): Do not arise. INTRODUCING BIO TOILETS IN TRAINS 7th September, 2012 RSQ *389 SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) whether there is a proposal for introducing bio-toilets in trains; (b) if so, the details worked out so far, especially for South Central Railway (SCR); and (c) the funds spent/proposed to be spent in this regard in the Eleventh and Twelfth Five Year Plan, respectively? MINISTER FOR RAILWAYS (SHRI MUKUL ROY) (a) to (c) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF STARRED QUESTION NO. 389 BY SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI TO BE ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 07.09.2012 REGARDING INTRODUCING BIO-TOILETS IN TRAINS.

(a) & (b): So far nine trains are provided with 504 bio toilets for in-service trials. Based on the experience gained and outcome of these trials, it is planned to induct bio-toilets progressively in the trains. No separate plan for South Central railway has been worked out. Also no Railway wise introduction of bio-toilets is envisaged. (c): The funds spent in this regard in the 11th Five Year Plan were approximately ` 6.0 crores. Investment required during 12th Five Year Plan will depend upon the changes necessitated from time to time due to the exigencies of their usage pattern and other service conditions. SETTING UP OF THERMAL POWER PLANTS 23rd November, 2012 RSQ 268 SHRI HUSAIN DALWAI Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) whether Railways have planned to set up its own captive thermal power plants; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the extent to which it would help in reducing Railways’ cost of operation; (d) whether there is any proposal to set up such a plant in Maharashtra too; and (e) if so, where the plant is proposed to be set up? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a): Yes, Sir. (b) to (e): Indian Railways (IR) is establishing its first coal based captive power plant of 1000 Mega Watt (MW) capacity at Nabinagar in Bihar in Joint Venture (JV) with National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), which is under construction. Indian Railways has further planned to set up two more captive power plants in Railway land, one 1320 MW capacity coal based power plant at Adra in Purulia District of West Bengal in Joint Venture with National Thermal Power Corporation and another 700 MW gas based power plant at Thakurli near Kalyan in Maharashtra. Fuel linkage & environmental clearance for both these plants are in process. Annual saving of about Rs. 500 crore from Nabinagar plant, Rs. 600 crore from Adra plant & Rs. 200 crore from Thakurli plant has been estimated due to reduction in electricity tariff. RAIL TARIFF AUTHORITY 23rd November, 2012 RSQ 275 SHRI VASANTHI STANLEY SHRI SANJAY RAUT (a) whether the Ministry has constituted Rail Tariff Authority (RTA) to decide train fares; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether the RTA would take into account facilities like drinking water, sanitation and food before hiking the fares? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) No, Sir.

(b) & (c) Do not arise. RAILWAY PROJECTS IN UTTAR PRADESH 23rd November, 2012 RSQ 278 SHRI JUGUL KISHORE Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) the details and present status of under construction railway projects in Uttar Pradesh; (b) the details of funds spent on railway projects during last three years; (c) the steps being taken by Railways on the requests made by the Government of Uttar Pradesh regarding the said projects; and (d) the time to be taken for completing the said projects? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) & (b): There are 9 new line, 6 gauge conversion and 14 doubling sanctioned ongoing project falling fully/ partly in Uttar Pradesh. The expenditure incurred on these projects during last three years i.e. 2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12 are ` 904.61 crore, ` 576.42 crore and ` 677.91 crore respectively. Railway has huge throwforward of ongoing projects and limited availability of resources; hence, the projects are being progressed as per availability of resources. (c): Steps have been taken to generate extra budgetary resources through State participation, Public Private Partnership, defence funding, declaring some projects as National Projects, revival of Capital Fund and implementation of bankable projects through Rail Vikas Nigam Limited. All this will overcome the problem of shortage of funds to some extent. Regular meetings are held with Chief Secretaries and other concerned officials to speed up issues related to land acquisition, law & order conditions and forestry clearance, etc. Field units are empowered to expedite the completion. (d): Targets for completion of all these projects have not been fixed. Targets are fixed annually depending upon availability of resources and progress made on individual projects. BIO TOILETS IN TRAINS 30th November, 2012 RSQ *118 SHRI C.M. RAMESH (a) whether Government has installed bio-toilets in all the trains being operated by South Central Railway; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER FOR RAILWAYS (SHRI PAWAN KUMAR BANSAL) (a) to (c) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF STARRED QUESTION NO. 118 BY SHRI C.M. RAMESH TO BE ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 30.11.2012 REGARDING BIO-TOILETS IN TRAINS. (a) to (c): So far nine trains are provided with 504 bio toilets for in-service trials. Based on the experience gained and outcome of these trials, it is planned to induct bio-toilets progressively in the trains. No separate plan for South Central Railway has been worked out. No Railway-wise introduction of bio-toilets is planned yet.

COMPLAINTS REGARDING CLEANLINESS AND WATER ETC. 30th November, 2012 RSQ 880 SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR (a) the number of complaints received by the Ministry from passengers pertaining to cleanliness, defective fittings, pests, rodents, linen and water during last three years, year-wise and Zone wise; and (b) the corrective measures taken by Railways in the matter? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) & (b) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 880 BY SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR TO BE ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 30.11.2012 REGARDING COMPLAINTS REGARDING CLEANLINESS AND WATER ETC. (a) & (b) Indian Railways always endeavor to provide good quality services to the passengers in trains. However, some complaints and references are being received on the Railways regarding cleanliness, fittings, pest, rodents, linen and availability of water in coaches. The number of complaints received by the Ministry from passengers pertaining to cleanliness, defective fittings, pests, rodents, linen and water during the last three years, year-wise and zone wise are as under:

Zonal Railways 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 (upto Oct’12)

Central Railway 151 67 31 Eastern Railway 236 118 93 East Central Railway 213 186 248 East Coast Railway 402 620 283 Northern Railway 85 38 24 North Central Railway 52 61 29 North East Railway 41 63 54 North Frontier Railway 211 76 30North Western Railway 21 57 14 Southern Railway 74 122 66 South Central Railway 174 129 60 South Eastern Railway 132 318 141 South East Central Railway 22 51 46 South Western Railway 87 33 15Western Railway 263 291 133 West Central Railway 112 170 73 Indian Railway 2276 2400 1340

Complaints/suggestions, whenever received, are acted upon appropriately by Railways and suitable corrective action is initiated to prevent its recurrence. Besides, Regular Inspections/checks are also carried out at various levels to monitor the quality of services provided to the passengers. MANUAL SCAVENGING IN RAILWAYS 30th November, 2012 RSQ 891 SHRI PRABHAT JHA

SMT KUSUM RAI SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH (a) whether Railways have sought exemption from proposed law for blanket ban on manual scavenging; (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and (c) the details of manual scavengers engaged in Railways, at present, Zone-wise? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI K. JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) to (c) : No, Sir. On Indian Railways, there are no dry latrines in Railway Stations, offices or residential quarters and there is no manual scavenging in Indian Railways controlled area. Concrete aprons have been provided for the tracks at platforms and mechanized cleaning through high-powered water jets is undertaken. In order to address the problem of open discharge of human waste on tracks, significant efforts have been put in by Railways for elimination of the problem in phased manner by introduction of bio-toilets in Railway coaches. CLEARANCES FOR RAILWAY OVER BRIDGE PROJECTS 30th November, 2012 RSQ 892 SHRI KANWAR DEEP SHARMA Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government is planning to take any steps to expedite clearances for railway over-bridge projects; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether such steps will sidestep the processes currently in place that ensure due diligence in the entire process of granting clearances; (d) if so, the details thereof, including steps to address such concerns; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS ( SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY ) (a) and (b): Ministry of Railways has already taken various steps to expedite the clearances of ROBs. Procedure for sanction of ROB: I. ROBs are constructed in lieu of Level Crossing (LC) in a phased manner based on the quantum of traffic density. Criteria for replacement of LCs by ROB/RUB: (A) On cost sharing basis: 1. Level crossings with Train Vehicle Units (TVU) more than 1 lakh qualify for replacement by ROB/RUB on cost sharing basis. 2. Level Crossings in the following areas with TVU less than 1 lakh can also be considered for replacement by ROB/RUB on cost sharing basis under following conditions: • Suburban sections having high frequency of train services; and • Near stations where detentions to road traffic are very high on account of either shunting operations or multi directional receipt/despatch of trains or stabling of trains etc. • Wherever Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFC) running parallel to Indian Railways, all LCs are being eliminated by ROBs/RUBs. (B) If the quantum of road traffic is less than 1 lakh then such LCs may be replaced by ROBs by sponsoring agency on deposit terms i.e. the sponsoring agency has to bear the complete cost of construction and maintenance thereof. II. While sanctioning the construction of ROBs in lieu of LCs on cost sharing basis, State Government has to give consent for: • closure of LC after commissioning of ROB/RUB, • sharing of cost • Providing encumbrance free land on approaches • Undertaking the maintenance, lighting & drainage work after completion of ROBs/RUBs • Providing diversion route to road traffic to facilitate construction.

(c): Such procedure will not side step the process currently in place. However, the construction of ROB mainly depends on positive cooperation from the State Government and most of the time progress of ROB/RUB is hampered because of: • late sanction of corresponding work in the State Budget • inadequate fund allocation by the State Govt., • non-submission of General Arragement Drawing (GAD) & estimate by the State Govt. • frequent changes in alignment of approaches • late finalisation of tender for the work of approaches • non-availability of encumbrance free land for construction of approaches, • not providing undertaking to maintain road and drainage in future for RUBs, delay in providing consent of closure of level crossings. (d) Railway has taken pro-active measures in close coordination with various stake holders for expeditious clearance of ROB projects: • joint survey with all concerned including State Govt. to finalise the tentative GAD, • circulation of check list and guidelines for preparation of GAD to State Govt. to avoid any back reference from Railway to State Govt. • standardization of drawings for various spans to avoid delay in designing. • nomination of nodal officer for single window clearance of GAD from Railway side • use of pre-cast /pre-fabricated components of the bridge. • engaging single agency for construction of Railway Bridge as well as the approaches. (e) Does not arise. FOG SAFETY DEVICES 30th November, 2012 RSQ 908 SHRI N.K. SINGH DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE (a) whether Railways have adequate fog safety devices to overcome the problem of visibility; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) if not, the reasons therefore; (d) whether Government is planning to use any better equipment; and (e) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) No, Sir. Fog Pilot Assistance System for Safety (Fog Pass) device is under extended performance trials. (b)&(c) There are issues of reliability and effectiveness to be sorted before this device can be universally adopted for fog safety. The device is under extended trials, during which evaluation and improvement is being done. The details for fog safe device is as under: Railway Available Under Procurement Northern Railway 670 385 North Eastern Railway 190 110 North Western Railway 124 - (d) Yes, Sir.

(e) On Board Train Protection & Warning System (TPWS): A pilot project of 50 Route Kilometers has already been commissioned on Southern Railway. Another pilot project of 200 Route Kilometers is under progress on Nothern/North Central Railway. Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) Extensive field trials are proposed through Research Designs & Standards Organisation on nominated sections on different type of rolling stock in operation on Indian Railways. SCARCITY OF PACKAGED WATER 30th November, 2012 RSQ 913 SHRI SANJAY RAUT (a) whether scarcity of packaged water has added to the miseries of the vendors at railway stations; (b) whether vendors have complained that IRCTC is not supplying bottles of ‘Rail Neer’ according to demand; (c) whether vendors claim that for inadequate supply, they are neither able to meet the demand nor can sell bottles of other companies not allowed by IRCTC; (d) if so, the steps Government is taking to ensure adequate supply of Rail Neer bottles or permit vendors to sell bottles of other brands; and (e) the steps taken by Railways to curtail price of packaged Rail Neer? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) to (d): As per extant policy guidelines wherever Rail Neer packaged drinking water bottles (PDW) is not adequately available, other BIS (Bureau of Indian Standard) approved packaged drinking water bottles having requisite laid down standards, are shortlisted by zonal Railways and permitted for sale over the Railways. To ensure adequate availability of Rail Neer, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has set up three drinking water plants at Nangloi (Delhi) and Danapur (Bihar) and Palur (Tamil Nadu) for production of 1 litre packaged drinking water bottles. Apart from this, six bottling plants are to be set up by IRCTC at Ambala, Amethi, Mal, Nasik, Farakka and Trivandrum as announced in Railway Budget 2010-11. (e): The sale price of Rail Neer is based on the cost of production and distribution. COST ESCALATION DUE TO DELAYS 30th November, 2012 RSQ 926 SHRI NARESH AGRAWAL Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) the number of projects of Railways that have undergone cost escalation due to delay; (b) the details of total extra expenditure due to delay in projects; (c) whether Government has taken any steps to reduce delays and control cost escalations; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY (a) to (e): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (e) OF UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 926 BY SHRI NARESH AGRAWAL TO BE ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 30.11.2012 REGARDING COST ESCALATION DUE TO DELAYS (a) to (e): Cost escalation of railway projects is on account of large shelf of ongoing projects having huge throwforward with limited availability of resources. As a result, funds are thinly spread out thus prolonging period of completion. Depending upon their relative priority, projects get completed. The extra expenditure being incurred by Railways cannot be quantified in real terms as escalation depends on various factors every year. As on 01.04.2012, Railways have 347 ongoing projects under New Lines, Gauge Conversions and Doubling having a throwforward of about `1.47 Lakh Crore. Apart from fund constraints, following factors also contribute to delay in execution of projects:- (i) Delays in land acquisition and forestry clearances; (ii) Adverse law & order condition and other market forces; (iii) Failure of contracts; (iv) Technological changes, improved standard of construction and other changes in scope of work due to change in traffic pattern etc which could not be anticipated at the time of sanction of project. To expedite completion of projects, a number of initiatives have been taken to generate additional resources through non-budgetary measures like funding by State Governments and other beneficiaries, execution of projects through Rail Vikas Nigam Limited on SPV basis etc. Efforts made by Railways have started giving results. On the request of railway, 10 State Governments have come forward for sharing cost of 4760 Km of projects. 5 projects have been taken up with participation of industry/stakeholders. Besides, to reduce delays on account of land acquisition, security issues and forestry clearances etc, meetings with State Officials at various levels are held from time to time. Field units have been empowered with further delegation of powers and the contract conditions have been modified to bring efficiency in contract management. Security, land acquisition and environment issues are also taken up with State Governments and Ministry of Environment & Forest for early approvals. RAILWAY NETWORK IN SEISMIC ZONES 7th December, 2012 RSQ 1661 DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY

(a) whether railway network in some parts of the country falls under highly seismic zones;

(b) if so, the details thereof, seismic zone-wise; and

(c) the steps taken/being taken by Railways to protect the railway network in the country from the seismic calamities? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) Yes, Sir. (b) & (c) For the purpose of determining design seismic forces, the country is classified into four seismic zones (seismic zone II, III, IV & V) with zone V being severe most seismic zone. All Railway Bridges and Structures in railway network are designed as per seismic provisions prescribed in relevant codes/rules. DELAY OF TRAINS DUE TO FOG 7th December, 2012 RSQ 1662

SMT MAYA SINGH

(a) the measures Railways have taken to prevent delay of trains due to fog in winter;

(b) whether there is any data on the probable intense fog areas;

(c) whether the Ministry plans to fix anti-fog lights on the routes most affected by fog;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) if not, Railways, strategy to avoid inconvenience to passengers due to delay in rail traffic? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) & (e) With the onset of foggy weather, trains in both saturated and non-saturated routes get delayed due to impaired visibility. Provision of LED signals tends to reduce the delay due to better visibility of signals by the Loco Pilots. Advance action especially on saturated routes is taken, every year, by notifying cancellation of less patronized trains so that line capacity improves and remaining trains are able to run with lesser delays. The spare rakes so made available by cancellation of trains are often utilized to originate trains right time, wherever operationally feasible, if the pairing rake is late, thereby reducing passenger inconvenience. However, even with available technical inputs, a permanent solution to the problem of mobility of trains during fog does not appear to be on hand for the present. (b) Fog has been affecting trains running on Indian Railways especially in the northern part of the country, almost every year. (c) & (d) No, Sir. ACCIDENTS INVOLVING ELEPHANTS AND OTHER ANIMALS 7th December, 2012 RSQ 1668 SHRI JUGUL KISHORE

(a) whether Government is making any efforts to prevent the accidents involving elephants and other animals on railway tracks;


(c) whether elephant corridors have been identified for the purpose of controlling speed of trains and installing sign boards; and

(d) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) to (d): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.1668 BY SHRI JUGUL KISHORE TO BE ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 07.12.2012 REGARDING ACCIDENTS INVOLVING ELEPHANTS AND OTHER ANIMALS (a) & (b): Ministry of Railways is holding regular meetings with the Ministry of Environment and Forests to take remedial measures for controlling elephant casualties. Elephant corridors have been identified by the Forest Department, and on such corridors speed restrictions have been imposed and signage boards provided to pre-warn

the train drivers. Advisory to Zonal Railways have also been issued to sensitise Train Crew and Station Masters on a regular basis. Instructions have also been issued for need based clearance of vegetation on the sides of the track within railway land.

As per the advice of Forest Department, Railways is also attempting to find a more lasting solution in the matter through deposit works consisting of measures such as ramps and underpasses etc., the cost of which will be borne by the Forest Department. (c) Yes, Sir. (d) The elephant corridors identified in consultation with Forest Department, are as under:-

RAILWAY SECTION LOCATION NAME OF FOREST

SPEED RESTR-ICTION (KMPH)

REMARKS

EAST CENTRAL

Chhipadohar-Hehegara of Barkakana - Garwa Road section

Km 245/33 -37 (Up) & Km 245/34 -38 (Dn)

Bela Forest of Palamu District

25

NORTHERN Laksar-Dehradun Km 31 - 52 Rajaji NationalPark

- Caution signage boards provided

NORTHEAST FRONTIER NORTHEAST FRONTIER

Kamakhya Jn-Goalpara Town-New Bongaigaon

Km 65/7-68/3 Rani Reserve Forest

50

Kamakhya Jn-Goalpara Town-New Bongaigaon

Km 163/0-168/0 Rani Reserve Forest

50

Guwahati-Lumding Km 174/1-174/4 and Km179/4-179/7

Uddali Bananchal

50

Lumding –Furkating Km 236/5-236/8 Daidali Reserve Forest

50

Furkating -New Tinsukia

Km 372/2-373/4 Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary

50

Furkating-Jorhat Town –Mariani

Km 80/7-82/0 and Km 82/6- 83/3

Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary

50

Makum Jn-Ledo Km 20/0-20/5 Upper Dihing Reserve Forest

50

Alipurduar Jn-Siliguri Jn-New Jalpaiguri

Km 16/5-27/0 Mahananda Reserve Forest

50


Km 65/8-68/9 Chaparmari Wildlife Sanctuary

50


Km 128/1-130/8 Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary

50


Km140/2-141/3 Buxa Tiger Reserve

50


Km16/0-34/2

Mahananda Reserve Forest

50 during night only


Km 81/6-100/6

Outside Forest 50 during night only


Km 114/4-168/0 Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary & Buxa Tiger Reserve

50 during night only

RAILWAY SECTION LOCATION NAME OF

FOREST SPEED RESTR-ICTION (KMPH)

REMARKS

SOUTHERN

Podanur-Pallakkad (A line)

Km 505-508 Km 510-513

Walayar

Time Period Up Dn Day time (06:00-18:00 hrs)

65 25 (Goods)65 (Pasenger)

Night time (18:00-06:00 hrs)

45 25 (Goods)45 (Pasenger)

Podanur-Pallakkad (B line)

Km 505-508 Km 510-513 Km 515-517

Walayar Time Period Up Dn Day time (06:00-18:00 hrs)

65 35 (Goods) 65 (Pass-enger)

Night time (18:00-06:00 hrs)

45 35 (Goods) 45 (Pass-enger)

SOUTH EASTERN

Sonua-Jaraikela in Chakradharpur-Rourkela(UP)

Km 332/25-384/11 Saranda - Blow Long Whistle, sharp Look Out

Sonua-Jaraikela in Chakradharpur-Rourkela(DN)

Km 384/11-332/25 Saranda - Blow Long Whistle, sharp Look Out

Bimalgarh-Kiriburu Km 487-494 Saranda 20Jinkpani-Singhpokharia (UP)

Km 321/32-34 Fringe area of Saranda Forest

- Sharp Look Out

Jinkpani-Singhpokharia (DN)

Km 321/32-34 Fringe area of Saranda Forest

- Sharp Look Out

Maluka-Noamundi(UP)

Km 356/19-374/5 Fringe area of Saranda Forest

- Blow Long Whistle, sharp Look Out (from18.00 hrs to 06.00 hrs)

Noamundi-Maluka(DN)


- Blow Long Whistle, sharp Look Out (from18.00 hrs to 06.00 hrs)

Padapahar-Jamkundia(UP)


40 Blow Long Whistle, sharp Look Out (from18.00 hrs to 06.00 hrs)

Jamkundia -Padapahar(DN)



Jaroli-Nayagarh Km 412/11-412/20 Fringe area of Saranda Forest


SOUTH Rayakottai- Km 125-133 Udaya-durgam 40 during night only

RAILWAY SECTION LOCATION NAME OF

FOREST SPEED RESTR-ICTION (KMPH)

REMARKS

WESTERN Periyanayaktone in Bangalore-Salem section

RAILWAY PROJECTS 7th December, 2012 RSQ 1673 SHRI RAGHUNANDAN SHARMA Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) the details of railway projects approved by Railways, as on date, in different States during each of the last three years; (b) the State-wise details of projects which are under construction for the last ten years along with the sanctioned amount of each of the project, particularly in Madhya Pradesh; (c) the steps taken by Railways to complete pending railway projects within stituplated time-frame; and (d) the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) to (d): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1673 BY SHRI RAGHUNANDAN SHARMA TO BE ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 07.12.2012 REGARDING RAILWAY PROJECTS (a) & (b): Year-wise details of ongoing new line, gauge conversion and doubling projects included in Railway Budgets during the last ten years indicating year of approval, plan head, State, latest anticipated cost and length (in Km) is given in Appendix. (c) & (d): Railways have huge throwforward of ongoing projects with limited availability of resources. As a result, funds are thinly spread thus prolonging period of completion. Completion of projects also depends upon their relative priority. Apart from this, delay in land acquisition and forestry clearances, law & order problems, adverse monsoon & contract failures are main reasons affecting timely completion of projects. To expedite completion of ongoing projects, efforts are made to generate extra budgetary financing through State participation, Public Private Partnership, defence funding, declaring some projects as National Projects, revival of Capital Fund and implementation of bankable projects through Rail Vikas Nigam Limited. In addition, (i) the contract conditions have been modified to bring efficiency in contract management and field units have been empowered with further delegation of powers; and (ii) Security, land acquisition and environment issues are also taken up with State Governments and Ministry of Environment & Forest for early approvals. RAILWAY PROJECTS PENDING FOR APPROVAL 7th December, 2012 RSQ 1700 SHRI SUKHDEV SINGH DHINDSA Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) the number of railway projects pending with Government for approval, as on date; (b) the status of each project; and

(c) the steps taken, by Government to clear the projects speedily? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) to (c): Approval of projects is a continuous process. As on 1.4.2012, 84 proposals of new line, 4 proposal of gauge conversion & 4 proposals of doubling projects have been sent to Planning Commission for ''in principle approval'' and appraisal. Proposals are in various stages of scrutiny. Matter is being followed up with Planning Commission for early clearance. RAILWAY BRIDGE OVER BRAHMAPUTRA RIVER 14th December, 2012 RSQ 2458 SHRI KUMAR DEEPAK DAS (a) whether Government has any proposal for construction of second railway bridge over Brahmaputra river near Saraighat bridge as the present bridge consists of single railway line; (b) if so, the details of the proposal including the date of commissioning; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY ) (a) to (c): A survey for construction of 2nd rail bridge at Saraighat near Guwahati over river Brahmaputra has been completed. Survey report is under examination. Further decision would be taken once results of the survey report are finalized. . DEATHS AT UNMANNED RAILWAY CROSSINGS 14th December, 2012 RSQ 2462 SHRI A.V. SWAMY (a) the number of deaths in Odisha, both human and animals, at unmanned railway crossings during last three years, i.e., 2010, 2011 and 2012 till date, with their locations; and (b) the details of measures taken by Railways to stop such loss of lives? MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI KOTLA JAYA SURYA PRAKASH REDDY) (a) and (b): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) AND (b) OF UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2462 BY SHRI A.V.SWAMY TO BE ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 14.12.2012 REGARDING DEATHS AT UNMANNED RAILWAY CROSSINGS. (a): Number of persons who lost their lives in consequential incident at unmanned level crossings caused due to negligence of road vehicle users in the state of Odisha during 2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12 and the current year from April to October, 2012, and the locations of such incidents are given below:

Year No of persons who

lost their lives Locations / Section/ Block Section

2009-10 01 Between Rengali and Sasan stations on Jharsuguda – Titlagarh section of Sambalpur Division

2010-11 Nil --------

2011-12 04 2 persons lost their lives in incident between Kantabanji and Muribahal stations of Vijaynagaram – Titlagarh section of Sambalpur Division; 2 persons lost their lives in incident between Jarapada and Boinda stations of Angul – Sambalpur section of Sambalpur Division

2012-13 (April to October, 2012)

15 1 person lost his life in incident between Maneswar and Hatibari station of Sambalpur- Angul section of Sambalpur Division; 14 persons lost their lives in incident between Sambalpur City and Maneswar stations of Angul – Sambalpur section of Sambalpur Division.

As per records, death of animas at unmanned level crossing during 2010 and 2011 is Nil. However, death of 18 cows has been reported in the current year during April to October, 2012 between Charbatia and Gurdijhitia stations. (b): Various steps have been taken by the railways to prevent incidents at unmanned level crossings which include ensuring availability of basic infrastructure at these level crossings, public awareness and publicity campaigns through electronic and print media, mass messaging (SMSs) to educate the road users, joint ambush checks with involvement of civil authorities to penalise the erring road users, progressive manning, provision of subway at technically feasible locations, construction of diversion road upto adjacent manned gates/ grade separator (ROB/RUB), closure of such unmanned level crossings which are having negligible rail/road traffic, etc.

railways on environment: rajya sabha 2012-13wwfenvis.nic.in/files/environment in the indian...

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