Better amenities, safety for passengers: Nitish  

Railway Minister Nitish Kumar said here on Friday that railway infrastructure would further expanded and consolidated while an attempt would be made to strike a balance between the commercial and social obligations of the Railways. Addressing newspersons after assuming office in Rail Bhawan, he said developing and expanding railway network in backward areas would be given due emphasis irrespective of commercial viability. The minister said top priority would be given to punctuality, improving rail safety standards and passenger amenities, including cleanliness. Kumar said while many projects initiated by the United Front Government might continue, some might not be approved as all projects would be subjected to a "constant" review to bring them in accord with the natinla agenda of the new government. Concerted efforts would be made for optimal use of the resources while going ahead with the modernisation programme, Kumar said. The minister parried questions about possible increase in second class fares in the coming budget and said he was yet to get acquainted with the subject.