New Delhi: A Rs 46,000 crore 'action plan' on modernisation of Indian Railways and providing a dedicated corridor for freight traffic would be presented to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the Planning Commission shortly.

This was announced by the Railway Minister Laloo Prasad after an investiture ceremony in New Delhi in which he presented 34 medals to Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel for their gallantry, distinguished and meritorious services.

In his recent meeting with Laloo, the Prime Minister had suggested that the Railway Ministry should come forward with a comprehensive plan for the modernisation of the railways to make it a truly world class rail transport system.

Yesterday (Nov 1, 2004), at the meeting of the Council of Ministers, the Prime Minister stated that funds would not be a problem in the modernisation of Railways, Laloo said.

The plan would be aimed at modernising the existing railway facilities and developing new facilities, he said.

Addressing the RPF jawans after presenting the medals, the Railway Minister asked them to be vigilant against anti-social forces and provide safety and security to Railways and its passengers.

He said the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) Government was committed to the welfare of railway employees including the RPF personnel. Laloo also announced that 8,000 RPF vacancies would be filled immediately.