Indian Railways to Launch 23 New Container Terminals for Improved Cargo Efficiency

Indian Railways has announced plans to establish 23 new container terminals across India. These terminals aim to enhance export-import cargo movement through a more efficient rail network. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Expanding Cargo Infrastructure with New Container Terminals

Indian Railways is building 23 new container terminals in states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Haryana. Additional sites in Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal are under consideration.

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The Economic Times reports that the initiative offers private investors favorable terms for developing these terminals. Bulk cargo like coal and iron ore, however, will not be permitted at these specialized facilities.

New Policies Encourage Investment in Container Terminals

In 2023-24, Indian Railways transported 85.58 million tonnes (mt) of containerized cargo, up from 79.22 mt the previous year. By 2025, container loading is projected to reach 91 mt, generating an estimated ₹9,164.47 crore.

Private operators benefit from new policies, including concessional loading charges and a hub-and-spoke model for cost-effective logistics. This approach streamlines long-distance container movement while reducing operational costs.

Flexible Regulations and Financial Growth

Indian Railways has replaced earlier terminal fees with a flat rate, promoting efficient cargo handling. Operators can now store containers at terminals, allowing them to manage higher volumes with ease.

In August 2024, Indian Railways hit a record monthly freight milestone, transporting 126.97 mt. This achievement brought the cumulative financial year total to 653.22 mt, significantly higher than the 634.68 mt recorded in the same period last year.

Indian Railways’ plan for 23 new container terminals aims to modernize India’s cargo infrastructure, attract private investment, and meet the rising demand for containerized trade. This initiative will boost economic growth and position India as a global trade hub.

Photo, source: www.business-standard.com

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