To scale up freight loading onto IR, it is necessary to optimise the turnaround time, says Viral Joshi of TERI

Indian Railways has laid down an ambitious action plan to achieve 3000 MT loading by 2027. Railways being the most efficient mode of transport, modal shift to railways is crucial in achieving desired emission reduction and India's Nationally Determined Contributions targets. To scale up freight loading onto Indian Railways (IR), it is necessary to optimise the turnaround time - time when the wagon becomes available for the next loading. IR should augment more investment for developing efficient terminals. Suitable policies enabling private investment and involving material handling expertise by the railways will be needed for developing efficient goods handling systems.