Indian Railways Plans ₹30,000 Crore Revenue from New Gati Shakti Terminals.

Indian Railways aims to generate an additional ₹30,000 crore in revenue over the next three years through its new Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs), Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said.

Speaking to journalists, Vaishnaw highlighted that the revised GCT policy is expected to increase freight loading from sectors including automotive, cement, containers, and salt. “The existing 124 Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals are expected to rise to over 500 in the next five years,” he added, noting that many underutilised goods sheds will be developed into full-fledged cargo facilities.

An official statement clarified that legacy sidings developed under previous policies can migrate to the simplified GCT framework. To enhance safety, the Railways will now optionally undertake maintenance on private-sector-owned stretches connecting terminals to main lines on a payment basis, aiming to curb accidents.

Vaishnaw also emphasized improvements in passenger services, pledging that hygienic travel standards will be enhanced, especially in general class coaches, bringing them on par with reserved categories.

The minister said the new GCT policy aligns with Indian Railways’ plan to implement “52 reforms in 52 weeks” during 2026. Other initiatives under the reforms include ensuring proper end-to-end cleaning of trains, particularly on long-distance routes, to improve overall passenger experience.