Message dated 6.5.2004 to IRAS Officers from Ms. Vijayalakshmi Viswanathan, Financial Commissioner (Railways)

 

 

          The month of April had a packed schedule. Visits to Hubli and Secunderabad by full Board for performance review were purposeful and focussed.  IRFC organized an investor-meet at Singapore to raise US$80 million in the second week of April. The trip was beneficial and illuminating, with nuances of financial haggling unfolding in the deliberations with the Bankers.

 

          IRAS Association organized a dinner in honour of Shri A.S. Tewari and Shri N. Krishnamurthy in the first week.  The former superannuated on 29^th February 2004 while the latter took voluntary retirement to join the post of Member (Technical), Railway Claims Tribunal, Secunderabad. Through the forum, I wish to acknowledge the significant contribution made by both the senior officers. Excellence is the hall mark of their output and professional competence of a high order is their watchword.  I wish younger officers emulate them!

 

          It was a month in which the approximate actuals for the year was compiled, gladdening the hearts of the Board.  The forecast is bright and rosy, with the record incremental loading and realization of Rs.111 cr. from Badarpur Thermal  Power Station (thanks to my persistent dialogue with Power Secretary), which could  make it possible to achieve the traffic suspense clearance target. All FA&CAOs deserve full credit for the vigorous efforts in ensuring collection of postal haulage arrear charges, which are outstanding from 1996 onwards.  Continued downtrend in ordinary working expenses adds to the internal resource generation, with a likely healthy build-up of fund balances.  I must compliment and congratulate each and every one of you for this glorious achievement!

 

FC