The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) has issued a call for expressions of interest (EOI) from eligible parties to develop Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminals (GCT) under the Railway Board’s GCT Policy. The initiative aims to enhance India’s logistics infrastructure, reduce supply chain costs, and increase the modal share of railways in freight transportation.
The tender offers two categories for terminal development:
- Terminals on Railway Land
- Terminals on Non-Railway Land
The GCT policy seeks to promote private investment in terminal development, leveraging the modern, high-capacity rail connectivity of the Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs). The terminals will provide crucial support for logistics service providers, manufacturers, and warehousing investors. These partners will be required to submit detailed proposals outlining their plans, including projected traffic, infrastructure needs, and business strategies.
Eligibility Criteria for GCT Development
DFCCIL has outlined the following eligible categories of applicants for setting up GCTs:
- Individual or Sole Proprietorship Firms
- Hindu Undivided Families (HUF)
- Partnership Firms
- Companies Registered Under the Companies Act of 2013
- Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP)
- Registered Societies or Trusts
- Joint Ventures (JVs) or Consortiums
In addition, government and semi-government agencies, statutory bodies under central and state governments, as well as development authorities and municipal bodies, are also eligible to act as GCT Operators (GCTO) to set up the cargo terminals.
Salient Features of the GCT Policy
The GCT Policy includes several features designed to attract private participation and streamline the development process:
- Simplified Processes: A hassle-free approval system to ensure timely progress.
- Cost and Fee Structures: DFCCIL will not levy any charges for supervision, inspection, or commercial staff costs, making it an attractive proposition for investors.
- Land License Fee: A reduced fee of 1.5% of the market value of the land per annum with a 6% annual escalation, which is significantly lower than previous policies.
- Exclusive Handling Rights: GCT Operators will have exclusive rights to handle cargo, with the flexibility to set handling charges based on industry standards.
- Terminal Charges (TC) and Access Charges (TAC): Developers will receive a share of the TC/TAC, based on rates quoted during the bidding process.
- Common User Facilities: DFCCIL will bear the capital cost for the development of common-user facilities like signaling and telecommunication works at the terminal sites.
Minimum Infrastructure Requirements
The minimum infrastructure for GCTs along the DFCCIL corridors is low-cost, with an average investment of Rs. 10-15 crores. The basic infrastructure includes one handling line and a wharf measuring approximately 725x25m.
How to Apply
Interested firms must submit their expressions of interest (EOI) for terminals located on railway land or a formal application for terminals located on private land. Proposals must be submitted using the designated formats in Appendix I, II, and III, as per the instructions in the EOI document. The deadline for submission is set for 24:00 hrs on 31st December 2024, and applicants are encouraged to seek clarification from the provided contact in the EOI document.
About DFCCIL
DFCCIL, a Special Purpose Vehicle under the Ministry of Railways, was established in 2006 to develop, operate, and maintain India’s Dedicated Freight Corridors. The company aims to boost freight transportation efficiency by running high-axle-load trains at speeds of up to 100 kmph and developing cargo terminals through public-private partnerships. DFCCIL currently operates the Eastern Corridor (Ludhiana to Sonnagar) and is nearing completion of the Western Corridor (Dadri to Jawaharlal Nehru Port). The development of these corridors is expected to significantly reduce congestion, improve safety, and lower carbon emissions in India’s freight transport sector.
By attracting private investment and expertise, DFCCIL seeks to revolutionize India’s logistics infrastructure and provide a crucial boost to the country's economy.
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