To create modern grain storage facilities, FCI would commence the tendering process to set up silos with at least 2 million tonne capacity through private sector participation, in next couple of years.
Starting next month, FCI will invite tender for building silos with capacity of 50,000 tonne each at four locations and a 25,000 tonne grain capacity at one location.
Locations identified for creation of silos are Sahnewal (Punjab), Kotkapura (Punjab), Narela (Delhi), Katihar (Bihar) and Changsari (Assam).
Sources said that FCI would be provide guarantee of rentals for 30 years for silo operation for the private sector to recover capital investment and maintenance charges and there is a provision for 20% viability gap funding (VGF) from the government as per infrastructure projects norms.
Under the Design Build Finance Operate Transfer (DBFOT) norms, private developer is responsible for development of the project and FCI and states will provide land for building the silos. “Silos take much lesser area than the conventional storage facilities,” an FCI official said.
Benefits expected from creation of silos through private sector participation are timely delivery, optimum capital cost and efficient operations of project with minimal risk and involvement of implementing agency, the official said FCI had recently conducted feasibility studies for creation of silos across 11 locations.
The locations where the feasibility studies for creation of silos were conducted include Changsari (Assam), Pune (Maharashtra), White-field & Bellary (Karnataka), Narela (Delhi), Kila Raipur, Kotkapura, Sahnewal & Patiala (Punjab), Buxar & Katihar (Bihar).
