The railways are working on a package to help private container train operators, who have been hit hard by the current economic slowdown. Almost 20 per cent of the 66 rakes introduced by the operators have been laid off because of a dip in container cargo traffic over the last two months.
“Yes, we are working on a special package for private container train operators. Modalities are being worked out and the package will be announced in another 10 days,” said a senior railway ministry official.
Informed sources said the railways were likely to withdraw the 5-15 per cent increase in freight haulage charges introduced in September 2008. The railways are also thinking of reducing haulage charges on carriage of empty containers. A cut in stabling or parking charges for rakes at railway sidings is also being planned, say sources.
Currently, for an empty TEU (twenty feet equivalent container), the railways charge Rs 9,990 for export traffic and Rs 10,250 for import traffic between Delhi and JNPT. The fee for parking is Rs 20,000 per day.
“Because of the ongoing slowdown, on an average, only 60 per cent rakes are loaded. We have to pay haulage charges for empty containers. Doing away with this fee for empty containers will help us price aggressively and attract traffic from the road sector,” said a private container operator which operates 12 rakes.
The railways might also allow private operators to use its freight terminals for loading and unloading container cargo. This is expected to give more loading and unloading points to private operators. At present, the railways depend on the limited number of private inland container depots.
Almost 15 companies have been given licences by the railways to operate container train services for both export and domestic freight traffic.
“Private operators have invested in rakes mainly through debt. However, the current slowdown has forced many to lay off their rakes,” said RC Dubey, president, Container Train Operators Association.
