Garib Rath Express: Bedroll kits to be included in ticket-price
Bedroll kits could soon be included in the ticket price of Garib Rath Express, but it could cost significantly more with the railways considering a hike from Rs. 25 fixed 12 years ago in 2006, senior officials said. The review, in keeping with the steep rise in the cost of maintaining the linen, is likely to be applicable in other trains, too. Here's more.
Bedroll charges to be included in ticket-price in 6 months
The Deputy Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), in a letter, asked why a revision had not taken place for Garib Rath Express and recommended that the cost of the bedroll be included in the train fare. "Prices cannot remain the same forever... The bedroll charges will likely be included in the price of the ticket in the next six months," an official said.
Cost of procuring, maintaining bedrolls increased over the years
Presently, the railways supplies bedroll kits in all its air-conditioned coaches and their prices, around Rs. 25, are included in the ticket fare. However, this doesn't hold for Garib Rath and Duronto trains where passengers across classes can book the kits while purchasing their tickets at the same rate. Despite the increase in the cost of procuring/maintaining kits, the prices for same haven't revised.
What can one find in a bedroll kit?
The auditor's note highlights the need for a review of the cost of the bedroll kits, comprising two sheets, one face towel, one pillow with cover, and a blanket. An official in auditor's office said it was found during a review of the charges "recovered" for bedroll kits from the 26 Garib Rath trains that it had remained the same for 12 years.
