Insta
Higher Haulage And Freight Charges On The Cards, Says Railways; Move Aimed At Improving Passenger Amenities
A passenger train in Kashmir. (Indian Railways/Twitter)
In a bid to continue the improvements in passenger amenities, including cleanliness at stations, and equipping trains with modern features to ensure additional revenue growth, the Indian Railways has decided to increase freight rates and haulage fares, reports Zee Business.
The Railway Ministry said in a statement that its has rationalised its freight rates for revenue generation across the network for improving passenger amenities. A report had, in August, revealed that the railways spend Rs 111 for every Rs 100 it earns, which was Rs 114 for every Rs 100 in 2016.
"The rationalisation of freight rates would result in an 8.75 per cent increase in freight rates for major commodities such as iron, coal and steel, iron ore, and raw materials for steel plants," said the Ministry in a statement.
There has been an increase of 5 per cent in haulage charges of containers and 8.75 per cent in freight rates of other small goods.
"However, the freight rates of foodgrains, flours, pulses, fertilizers, salt, and sugar have not been increased, keeping in mind farmers and the common man. Additionally, the freight rates of cement and petroleum (including diesel) have not been hiked," the statement said.
Indian Railways is likely to generate additional revenue of Rs 3,344 crore from the move.
Support Swarajya's 50 Ground Reports Project & Sponsor A Story
Every general election Swarajya does a 50 ground reports project.
Aimed only at serious readers and those who appreciate the nuances of political undercurrents, the project provides a sense of India's electoral landscape. As you know, these reports are produced after considerable investment of travel, time and effort on the ground.
This time too we've kicked off the project in style and have covered over 30 constituencies already. If you're someone who appreciates such work and have enjoyed our coverage please consider sponsoring a ground report for just Rs 2999 to Rs 19,999 - it goes a long way in helping us produce more quality reportage.
You can also back this project by becoming a subscriber for as little as Rs 999 - so do click on this links and choose a plan that suits you and back us.
Click below to contribute.
Latest
