Rail budget forward looking, futuristic: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday described the 2015 rail budget as a "watershed" moment for Indian Railways and called it "forward looking, futuristic and passenger-centric budget".

"Rail budget 2015 is a forward looking, futuristic and passenger centric budget, combining a clear vision and a definite plan to achieve it," Modi said in a tweet after Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu presented his maiden budget here.

"Rail budget 2015 is a watershed moment for Railways, marking a paradigm shift from discussing coaches and trains to comprehensive railway reform," he added.

The rail budget promises nine more high-speed trains, faster speed of existing trains, Wi-Fi in 400 stations, user-friendly ladders to mount upper berths, easier norms for unreserved tickets, 17,000 bio-toilets in trains, better connectivity in north-east, and cameras for safety of women travellers.

Modi appreciated that the rail budget focused on the needs of common man, as Prabhu also kept passenger fares unchanged.

"I am particularly delighted that for the first time there is a concrete vision for technology upgradation and modernisation of the railways," he said.

"It (rail budget) stands out for its focus on the common man, putting speed, scale, service and safety, all on one track," he added.

Modi also said that the rail budget lays out a clear roadmap to make the railways the key driver of India's economic growth and playing a key role in India's progress.