Indian Railways: A Study in Public Utility Administration

India today has a magnificient railway system and a study of the origin and growth of this vast transport organzation is of engrossing interest to scholars and policy makers. The book is a compelling account of Indian railways as a prime example of public service industry and its historicises linkages between profitability, productivity and attainment of consumers' interests. The author has taken 1921 as the starting poing as the publication of the Acworth Committee Report in that year was a landmark in the history of Indian railways. He further covers changes in the railway administration in the immediate years. He further covers changes in the railway administration in the immediate years following independence. Ths issue of commercial profitability and balancing it with social commitment is still relevant and has come to influence debates on railway management and administration.