Invest more in transport

Indian Railways have introduced a new three-tier economy coach with aircraft-like features and a higher capacity. This should come as a boost to railways which will allow them to carry more passengers and improve its fiscal numbers. Travel needs to pick up in India for tourism, leisure and work and not only for weddings and other social functions.

All the modes of transport– rail, air, road and waterways have a huge potential to grow. During non-Covid times it would have been difficult to get a confirmed booking in either trains or flights. The huge waiting lists in trains send a clear message that more trains need to be added or their frequency increased. The same is true for air traffic. With the launch of the Udan scheme, flights are now taking off and landing at small towns and cities where only an airstrip existed earlier. These cities and towns now boast of an airport with all the attendant facilities.

The government on its part should not discriminate in giving incentives to all the modes of transport. Incentives should be blanket rather than sector-specific.

The service providers in all modes should come out with more innovative packages to woo travellers. Connectivity with tourist spots which record thin traffic despite potential should be improved and as corollary, even the hospitality sector needs to put in more in improving the facilities in these small destinations. And above all, service providers should invest in expanding infrastructure and ensuring the safety of passengers.

The stations need a facelift to make the passengers feel comfortable and courteous staff would enhance the experience. Travel is a sector that can grow manifold and lead to higher employment generation and should be encouraged even in the pandemic with all the precautions required.