Recent train accidents in India, including the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express, Kanchanjunga Express, and the July 30th derailment of the Mumbai-Howrah Mail near Barabamboo in Jharkhand, highlight a worrying trend of derailments and safety concerns. These accidents, following the deadly Balasore accident in June, raise questions about the government's priorities and accountability. Despite...
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the Indian Railways' vast network and importance for mass transportation, it faces neglect, financial mismanagement, and a shift towards luxury trains like Vande Bharat at the expense of general passengers. The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) found a significant deficit in track renewal funds, and the safety fund, RRSK, was misused for non-essential purchases. The government's focus on high-profile projects has led to overcrowding and a decline in average train speeds, prompting concerns about a deliberate strategy to justify privatization of the railways. The article cites examples of failed privatization in the UK and Singapore, highlighting the dangers of leaving operations in private hands, which can lead to higher fares, reduced services, and neglect of infrastructure. It argues that privatization would negatively impact affordable travel, reservation for marginalized sections, and employment opportunities for youth, making the recent accidents a cause for alarm about public safety and the future of the Indian Railways.