No decision on resuming rail services after April 15

New Delhi: The Railways Ministry hasn't taken a decision on resuming train services after 15 April, when the lockdown might possibly be lifted. The ministry dismissed news reports that travel protocols have been formed prior to resuming services.

There is no need for a special directive from the government for the Railways to resume services but it requires the government's permission. Even though the bookings for trains after April 15 are open, the entire amount would be refunded to the customers in case the permission is denied.

Railways is already issuing complete refund for all tickets booked between March 25 and April 14. In case the service resumes from 15 April onward, the rakes are ready to operate in all regions.

Meanwhile, the experts hint that it is better to stall rail services at least until April 30. Moreover, interstate services are not practical during this situation as it would be difficult to board passengers at various stations. Besides, food distribution, too, is a problem.

Experts also say that if the train services are resumed then there is a possibility that vast number of migrant labourers would return from their work places to their hometowns. This would further accelerate the crisis in the labour sector. It is reported that a high-level expert meeting attended by central ministers Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, and Nirmala Sitharaman suggested against resuming rail services soon.

Season tickets

Kochi: The demand for complete refund for the days lost during the lockdown or the extension of the validity of the season tickets is gaining momentum in the state. The Thiruvananthapuram division said that the complaints have been directed to the high level officials and hope to receive positive feedback from them.