SAIL welcomes Rail Budget, calls it "growth oriented"

"We welcome the Rail Budget 2014-15, which is growth-oriented. The Rail Budget has a highest ever plan outlay of Rs 65,445 crore in FY15," SAIL said in a statement.

"The thrust on close monitoring of dedicated freight corridor projects, new High Speed and Semi-high speed projects, track renewal, development of wagon leasing business, upgradation of stations, procurement of rolling stock, doubling and tripling of lines and gauge conversion is likely to boost steel consumption. We also welcome the Railways’ proposal to launch online demand registration," it said.

Promising course correction and pledging to move away from populism, Railway Minister Sadananda Gowda on Tuesday presented the Narendra Modi government's maiden Railway Budget focussing on a public-private partnership in infrastructure development, infusion of FDI, announcing introduction of a diamond quadrilateral of high speed trains, an inaugural bullet train service besides harping on e-ticketing augmentation, safety of passengers and cleanliness.

While the Lok Sabha was adjourned after budget speech of Sadananda Gowda amid din by disgruntled MPs of Opposition from largely TMC, Gowda promised on infrastructure and modernization besides taking forward wi-fi system.

"I have an open mind to correct," said Gowda, who emphasised on logistic parks and private freight terminals on PPP model.