MARGAO
Rajya Sabha MP wrote it was shocking that the fares charged for these journeys are exorbitant for devotees who belong to weaker sections of the society. “It is strange that the Railway Ministry has not considered this aspect,” he said, while suggesting to the minister to make the fares affordable.
He demanded that passengers who traveled on the train which left on 27th, be refunded the balance amount.
Alternatively, Naik has suggested that Railway Ministry should request the BJP government in Goa to subsidise the amount over and above the rate charged for regular train on the route. “I am of the view that from next year onwards full subsidy be given to the passengers travelling on these three special trains. Fifty percent should be borne by the Central government and the balance by the state government since members of Muslim community too go on Haj pilgrimage,” Naik added.
In his letter, the South Goa MP drew attention of the Railway minister to the steep hike in the train fares, saying the decision has caused hardships to the pilgrims.
Sawaikar has suggested to the minister to consider roll back of the fares.
