Rail Freak

India’s cabinet approved a proposal on April 5 to establish an independent rail regulator, which will be responsible for setting Indian Railways’ (IR) freight and passenger tariffs and ensuring a level playing field for stakeholders and investors. an independent regulator for the Indian Railways that will be empowered to set fares. Except that its name will neither have the words 'independent' or 'regulator'. The Rail Development Authority (RDA) - which will comprise a chairman and three members – will set efficiency and performance standards for IR on the basis of “global benchmarking parameters”. It will have the powers to engage experts from other fields. The RDA is expected to revive investor sentiment, as it will ensure greater continuity on the railway when a change of government occurs. With the setting up of the regulator towards the fourth quarter of 2017, passenger fares on the IR network - which have remained hugely subsidised in recent decades - ar...

Maharaja's Express  - an initiative of Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) - is the latest luxury train to be introduced in India Often called "the Orient Express of the Orient," the  Maharajas' Express  is a recent entrant to the luxury train market. The decor attempts to emulate the golden days of the Raj when Maharajas traveled with opulence and pomp in ostentatious carriages. Such colonial splendor has been recreated to the full and the week-long journey also immerses travelers in the spirit of the era with gin and tonic sundowners, elephant rides and a chance to chat with erstwhile royal families. It's an enjoyable three-night ride, but passengers should beware of some hidden extras such as camera and video fees or porter charges. From $3,850 per person List of Most Luxurious Trains In The World Rank Name Average Charges 1. Maharaja Express $3,850 2. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express $2,142 3. Royal...