Faster Freight Transit: Indian Railways Rolls Out Scheduled Cargo Services

Indian Railways has initiated time-tabled, commodity-specific cargo services to significantly enhance freight movement across northern India. This move targets key manufacturing, agricultural and export regions, cutting down transit delays and improving delivery predictability.

Time-Tabled Services Slash Freight Transit Times

The newly introduced services include the Annapurna Service, Gati-Vahan Service, Niryaat Cargo Service and Anantnag Cement Cargo Service. The Annapurna Service operates between Ludhiana and Varanasi, transporting foodgrains across 704 km in just 17 hours. 

The Gati-Vahan Service caters to auto logistics from Farrukhnagar to Lucknow, completing its 557 km route in 28 hours, a major drop from the previous 70 hours. The Niryaat Cargo Service links Garhi to Mundra Port, shipping containers over 1,061 km in 32 hours.

Enhanced Planning and Industry Alignment

To ensure efficiency, Indian Railways coordinated with various stakeholders like the FCI, container operators and automobile manufacturers. This allows smoother passage across divisions and zones, with structured time slots. For instance, cement companies benefit from the Anantnag Cement Cargo Service running between Roopnagar and Anantnag, covering 586 km in 31 hours.

Read More: Indian Railways Reduces Bottled Water ‘Rail Neer’ Price After GST Reforms!

Positive Industry and Exporter Feedback

Industry feedback has been highly favourable. FCI appreciated the speed of foodgrain movement with the Annapurna Service, enhancing truck and labour management at unloading points. Maruti Suzuki noted the Gati-Vahan’s effectiveness in meeting delivery schedules similar to road transport standards. Exporters saw improved coordination with ports using the Niryaat service, while cement suppliers welcomed faster dispatch capabilities to Anantnag despite climatic challenges.

Efficiency and Predictability Transform Freight Operations

With fixed schedules and transparent arrival timings, businesses can now align supply chains with incoming rakes. This innovation is expected to drive better planning, reduce costs and shift freight volume from roads to rail, offering a reliable alternative for high-volume shippers.

Conclusion

Indian Railways' launch of scheduled cargo trains marks a strategic shift in domestic freight logistics. By ensuring predictable transit and aligning with industrial needs, these services are set to transform cargo transport efficiency in the region.

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