Chennai, Nov 24: Southern Railway expects to show a substantial jump in total parcel revenues with the concept of leasing of front SLR (second class luggage breakvan) becoming a big hit with many private parties. SRly is expecting a 25 per cent growth in total parcel earnings (inclusive of such leasing charges) for 1999-2000 as compared with Rs 50 crore it netted during the previous year.According to sources, the zonal railway had realised Rs 9 crore as the total annual gross lease value since leasing was introduced to generate additional revenues. This is in respect of 23 contracts awarded by SRly on 12 trains originating from the zone during the first seven months of fiscal 1999. The best ever earnings of SRly on account of leasing SLRs for parcels had been only Rs 2 crore during 1997-98.
The strategy of leasing the front SLR space of all trains at all zonal railways is the outcome of directives issued by the railway ministry.in pursuance of the announcement made by railway minister in the Parliament during the beginning of the current fiscal year.
Copyright © 1999 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.