Mamata evasive on PM's remarks

By Our Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI, FEB. 1. The Railway Minister, Ms. Mamata Banerjee, today said the Gujarat earthquake might not be enough of a reason to hike passenger fares. The Railways faced such challenges in the past without having to burden the people at large. Now also, it would undertake relief measures as part of its ``social obligation''.

``The earthquake is not a burden. When people are in trouble, the Railways will be ready for any sacrifice. Repairing the damage and saving lives will be our main concern,'' said Ms. Banerjee when she was asked about the Prime Minister's call to the people to be prepared for a hike in the Railway Budget, in view of the gigantic task of relief and rehabilitation in Gujarat.

Terming his statement ``broad-based'', Ms. Banerjee refused to comment further as the budget was in the final stages of preparation and also because it was the Prime Minister's ``absolute prerogative'' to comment on any issue. Ms. Banerjee has consistently opposed any fare hike on the grounds that amenities being offered to passengers should be improved before charging them more. But today she did not reiterate her views and instead asked newsmen to enquire about the relief measures being undertaken by the Railways.

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Section  : National
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