OREANDA-NEWS. February 09, 2012. Despite the measures taken by the Russian Government, Russian Railways and carriers made a total loss on suburban commuter rail services of about 9 billion roubles in 2011.Only 10 suburban commuter rail companies reached their break-even point, reported the press-centre of Russian Railways.

At the network’s school of advanced managerial experience at the Russian Railways’ passenger complex in Sochi, a round table was held to summarise the results of suburban passenger railway companies in 2011 and discuss the challenges in 2012.

In 2012, suburban commuter rail companies will have to solve a number of strategic tasks aimed at improving the quality of services and increasing the capitalisation of the companies.

This year, the companies will have to reach break-even point on their operations, develop a convenient timetable for suburban trains and coordinate it with other modes of transport, increase the comfort level in the commuter trains, expand the sales channels for tickets and improve the service culture for passengers and the exchange of information.

Suburban commuter rail companies will also have to pay much attention to the development of rapid suburban services. Accordingly, the Corporate Governance Centre for Suburban Transport at Russian Railways has developed standard requirements regarding the quality of services offered to passengers on rapid suburban links.