AGENCIES / NEW DELHI

Indian Railways have announced certain Freight incentives to give a boost to the economy. The busy season surcharge of 15 per cent on freight, which is levied between 1st of October to 30th June has been deferred.

The five per cent Supplementary charges applicable on loading on mini and two-point rakes has also been waived off. This is likely to boost loading of smaller cargo sizes and help cement, steel, food grains and fertilizers loading.

A discount of 25 per cent in haulage charge of containers has been given to encourage the movement of empty and flat to ports thereby increasing loaded container traffic in return. It is expected to enhance the price-competitiveness of Railway and other modes of transport and expand freight basket by capturing new traffic.

The number of rakes to be provided for the auto sector has also been hiked in a bid to increase freight loading.