The ground-breaking ceremony for the Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal (GCT) at New Gothangam on the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) marks a pivotal step in India’s logistics development. These terminals are set to enhance logistics capabilities, streamline cargo handling, and foster new industrial hubs along the Dedicated Freight Corridors.
Key Features of Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals:
- Streamlined Application Process: Quick, hassle-free approvals with a simplified application system.
- Zero Departmental Charges: No additional fees imposed on applicants, making it more attractive for industry stakeholders.
- Land and Staff Cost Waivers: Exemptions on land licence fees and commercial staff costs for rail connectivity.
- Freight Rebates: A 10% freight rebate for terminals generating over 1 million tonnes (MT) of outward traffic.
- Railway Support in Maintenance: The Railway will cover maintenance costs of tracks, signalling, and electrification, apart from the yard and loading/unloading lines.
- Multi-terminal Connectivity Rights: Railways maintain rights to extend connectivity to additional terminals on maintained track sections, maximising network flexibility.
Background:
To attract private investment for the development of cargo terminals, the Indian government launched the Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminal (GCT) policy on December 15, 2021. GCT locations are selected based on industry demand and cargo traffic potential, ensuring terminals are strategically placed for maximum impact.
Conclusion:
The development of Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs) along the Dedicated Freight Corridors is a transformative initiative aimed at improving India’s logistics efficiency and industrial connectivity. This strategic move is set to reduce logistical bottlenecks, foster new investments, and create a streamlined supply chain infrastructure across the nation.
Source: DFCCIL | Image Credit: DFCCIL
