Set up Task Force to oversee project completion: Lalu to GMs

New Delhi, Nov 14 (UNI) Exuding confidence that the Railways' phenomenal growth momentum would be sustained, Railway Minister Lalu Prasad today asked his General Managers to set up a Zonal Task Force in their respective zones to oversee completion of projects in a time-bound manner.

''While the rate of growth is commendable and should be sustained, achieving budget targets is a must,'' Mr Prasad said, while inaugurating a conference of General Managers from all zonal railways here.

The minister praised the GMs and other railway employees for the commendable financial and physical achievements during the first seven months of this year but warned them not to be complacent, especially in view of the beginning of the 11th Five-Year Plan from next year.

Credited with turning the loss-making transport behemoth into a cash-efficient, passenger-friendly entity, Mr Prasad impressed upon his GMs to chalk out efficient action plans for timely completion of the projects and cushion stiff competition from low budget airlines and freight transport companies.

Ministers of State for Railways Naranbhai J Rathwa and R Velu, Railway Board Chairman J P Batra and representatives of various federations and associations were also present on the occasion.

Picking up passenger amenities as an area of focus, Mr Prasad told the GMs that with delegation of more financial powers and availability of funds, they should complete the pending works in a time-bound manner.

In this connection, he asked the GMs to set up a task force to oversee completion of works within the stipulated time-frame.

Emphasising the need to ensure cleanliness and maintenance, he requested the GMs to pay more attention to the upkeep of passenger amenities, traffic and terminal facilities, rest houses and retiring rooms.

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