Freight Revolution Awaits Indian Railways; Logistics Seminar Discusses Investment in Dedicated Corridors
Leading freight companies in the country have offered significant suggestions to improve freight transportation within Indian Railways. This call for action emerged during a national freight seminar organized by the Centre for Transport Research and Management (CTRAM) at the SCOPE Complex in Delhi. Companies advocated for approving investments in freight and parcel wagons under the existing policy framework. The theme of the seminar was ‘Synergy on Track: Transforming India’s Logistics – Rail Express Revolution.’
Delegates suggested implementing this system in dedicated corridors with lower traffic density, noting that this would facilitate easier freight movement. Rinkesh Roy, CEO of JSW Infra, stated that investment schemes for freight and parcel wagons could boost freight capacity through private investment, thereby significantly benefiting the freight sector. He highlighted the need to achieve cost parity between road and rail for short-distance container transport. Additionally, suggestions were made to consider factors such as port charges, rail freight rates, and last-mile transportation costs. Delegates pointed out that the Railways currently lacks a sufficient number of such wagons and recommended curbing the unnecessary movement of empty flat rakes.
What are the suggestions from major companies?
Vijay Kumar Singh, Director (International Marketing & Operations) at CONCOR, advocated for the introduction of modern machinery and systems capable of simultaneous loading and unloading of bulk cargo. He also called for permission to procure new BOBNS wagons for iron ore transportation. Prabhat Kumar (Tata International Logistics), Mahendra Birhade (COO, DP World Rail), and Anil Gambhir (CFO, DTDC) also offered their suggestions.
Sachin Bhanushali (Consultant, World Bank & ADB), Colonel Viresh Sharma (Amazon India), and Vikram Mansukhani (COO, Blue Dart) also shared their insights on freight transportation. These suggestions aim to enhance the freight transportation efficiency of Indian Railways. What was the Railways’ response?
MS Bajwa, Executive Director (Freight Marketing) of Indian Railways, stated that the Railways has taken the suggestions offered by freight companies seriously. He assured that these suggestions would be considered while formulating the policy. Dr. Manoj Singh, Member (Operations & Business Development) of the Railway Board, was present at the seminar, alongside Additional Member (Traffic) Devendra Kumar and Executive Director (CTRAM) Amit Kumar Singh. This stance reflects the Railways’ commitment to improving the freight sector.
Why is this investment necessary?
Private investment can lead to a significant increase in the Railways’ freight-carrying capacity. The availability of freight and parcel wagons on dedicated corridors will save time, reduce freight costs, and enhance efficiency. Achieving cost parity in short-distance transportation will reduce reliance on road transport. Modern machinery and systems will accelerate loading and unloading processes, thereby strengthening the overall Indian freight system.
