GENERAL SURVEY
1. Once again the Railway's activities for the year 1952- 53 have been affected by the various controls imposed on normal trading. The import and export tonnages with China present a clear picture of the state of affairs for whereas imports from China amounted to 220,822 tons, exports were only 43,780 tons resulting in a large return empty wagon mileage.
2. Very early on in the year, the import traffic started to fall off, and it appeared doubtful as to whether it would be possible to complete the financial year with a working balance. Fortunately, conditions improved in the month of July, and the year closed with a surplus of revenue over expenditure of some $1,360,000.
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This result has not been accomplished without vigilance over expenditure by all Sections of the Department. Economies have been made both in staff and equipment, and the Estimates bear witness to vacancies not filled, waiting for better days. Certain expenditure, which otherwise would have fallen in an easier financial year, was unavoidable owing to the inordinate delay of the materials from England.
4. The Railway continues to suffer disappointment and a loss in revenue through the delay in supplying the new pas- senger coaches ordered in 1947. They were promised for the first quarter of 1953, but it now seems doubtful whether they will be available at the earliest before 1954.
5. It will be noted that sales of old materials during the year amounted to $609,257.99. They may well be described as clearance sales after the work of rehabilitation has been carried out.
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