Kerala today termed as "disappointing" and "hopeless", the first full-fledged railway budget by BJP-led NDA Government, saying it offered nothing to meet the state's long-pending demands.
Chief Minister Oommen said the budget would check the pace of Indian Railway as there were no new trains and projects.
"Though Kerala had many hopes regarding the budget, it was very disappointing. The state got relief only in doubling of lines but enough funds have not been provided for electrification and signalling," Chandy said in a release.
Though relief was expected in fares, the budget proposed a hike in freight charges, he said.
CPI(M) veteran and Opposition leader in the Assembly V S Achuthanandan said the budget totally neglected Kerala than the previous one and it was "condemnable" and "disappointing".
"The budget claimed to have focussed on doubling of lines but it did not give due share to Kerala in it," he said.
Echoing his sentiments, Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President V M Sudheeran said the increased freight charges would cause inflation and financial burden for people.
