Rlys releases draft policy on terminals at private ports to cut connectivity roadblocks

“Such private terminals will be permitted to handle all types of freight traffic. Connectivity from the nearest suitable railhead to the terminal will be provided,” said a senior rail board official. The port authority will be allowed for 30 years and the contract can be renewed after that. “The port rail terminal has to come up within two of years of signing the contract with the railways,” the official added.

To make the policy attractive for investors, railways is not levying any security or licence charge. However, the port authority will bear the entire cost of the terminal. “The technical feasibility of the private port terminal will be examined by the zonal railways,” the rail official added.

All consignment booked to and from the port rail terminal will be prepaid. Freight and other charges will be decided by the zonal railways. The cost of the railway staff stationed at the terminal would be borne by the port authority, the final draft of the policy said.