Railways Budget 2016: Suresh Prabhu not to burden passengers; will focus on innovation for revenue generation

When Suresh Prabhu will present the Railway Budget 2016-17 on February 25, passengers would ease a bit as the minister is unlikely to hike fares.

Instead, Prabhu will focus on strengthening the existing network and look out for innovative cash generation methods.

This is the second time that the fares will remain unchanged. However, there was a hike in freight charges in the last one.

Instead, the Railway Ministry will look at revamping 269 categories of concessions and monetise railway properties to generate funds.

In a bid to raise funds, the ministry could give names of the coaches for branding.

Also, the ministry has changed its children policy and from April 21, it is likely that children will be given a berth only on payment of full fare, unlike by present half-fare.

Also, Prabhu is likely to announce the semi-high-speed 'Gatimaan' train, higher number of Suvidha trains, etc.

(Image: Indiatimes)