The Railway Budget may not have showered the common man with goodies and offers this year, but it seems to have struck a chord with travellers with its focus on key issues such as sanitation, security and connectivity.

“One may not be able to visualise the benefits of this Rail Budget immediately,” said Ajit Kumar Mishra, who works as a project in-charge with an engineering firm in Kota, Rajasthan.

“Steps like additional coaches, better catering, and focus on sanitation through bio-toilets would help in sprucing up the overall travelling experience for frequent travellers like us,” he said.

“The move to allow four months advance ticket booking will also help in managing rush specially during the festival season.”

An Ahmedabad-based SME and corporate banker, Saurabh Vicky, is happy about the proposal to further digitise the services. “Wi-Fi facility at all stations is something which I am really looking forward to,” he said.

“The all-India helpline and toll-free security number are also a great initiative. I am looking forward to the successful implementation of all the announced plans which is not going to be easy,” Vicky added.

Most travellers seemed satisfied with increased focus on sanitation and security over railway crossing.

“They are trying to improve the amenities for passengers for which they are planning to increase the fund by 67 per cent. It’s a good sign,” said Kapil Patel, who works as a software engineer with a Chennai-based IT firm.

“Introduction of air vacuum toilets and rebuilding 1,700 toilets is also a good move as sanitation is a serious issue with Indian railways. With no increase in the fares, overall, it’s a good budget and they must try to achieve the target within the allotted time,” Patel added.

“High speed train connectivity between cities will allow lower cost business travel. One night connectivity between business hubs such as Delhi and Mumbai, and WiFi at stations with online food booking facility can bring trains back into fashion for business travellers, especially those from SMEs and start-ups,” said Yash Saxena, founder of Open Fuel, - a platform for promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.

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