CO129-519-6 Development of railways proposed by Chinese Government 7-9-1929 - 17-1-1930 — Page 42

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figuros. Since this date the average has dropped to round

about 2,000 (last week 2,176), though this is an improvement

on the corresponding months for 1928. It shows howover

that the summer months are lean ones and bring down the

daily average for the year very considerably.

5. Page 5. 1. Rehabilitation.

It cannot be said that

the "engines" have "been brought into a suitable state of

repair" or British Section engines would not be necessary

to haul the principal trains which were formerly hauled by

Chinese Section engines. Coaches generally are in fair

repair; but no additions have been made since line was

opened, and the British Section is depended upon to keep

spare coaches for all abnormal occasions. It is doubtful

whether "stations and buildings are in a satisfactory

condition". I understand that many require heavy repairs

and others should be rebuilt.

Eight thousand sleepers, should read Eighty, but

the amount in money is not affected.

6. Page 5

Đà

2. Provision of Additional Facilities.

(a). I entirely disagree with this paragraph. The present

accommodation in the cars is well up to the usual standards,

if properly maintained.

Observation, Drawing Room and

Parlour Cars would not attract traffic which does not yet

exist. Cheap as fares are, the 1st class cars are run at

a dead loss daily, The 3rd class traffic is undoubtedly

the most important. Drawing Room Cars to be really

attractive must be at the tail of the train, but this has

not been possible so far, as soldiers are considered by the

Chinese Section to be necessary at either end for the

protection of the trains and passengers, consequently the

1st class cars have always been placed in the middle of the

trains, and become common passages throughout the journey

over the Chinese Section for hawkers, soldiers and customs