Pilot Project Initiated for Mini Rake of Containers on Southern Railway

In a recent development, the Ministry of Railways has issued a corrigendum (No.53) outlining a pilot project for the introduction of Mini Rake of containers on the Southern Railway. The initiative, effective from December 1, 2023, aims to enhance container transportation with specific conditions to be met.

The key points of the corrigendum are as follows:

1. Minimum Composition for Mini Rake: The Mini Rake of containers will consist of a minimum of 25 wagons, allowing for increased flexibility in container transportation.
2. Terminal Operations: The Mini Rake can be loaded to and from any terminal where container traffic is handled, ensuring a broader reach and accessibility.
3. Free Time and Supplementary Charge: The handling of the Mini Rake at each terminal will have a total free time of 5 hours. Additionally, a supplementary charge of 10% on the applicable haulage charge will be levied throughout the year.
4. Commodity Classification: The Mini Rake will be permitted exclusively for container traffic, and the commodities loaded will be charged at the Container Class Rate (CCR). This applies irrespective of the number of containers loaded with the notified commodity.
5. Operational Routes: The routes for the operation of the Mini Rake will be identified in consultation with the concerned authorities, ensuring strategic and efficient transportation.
6. Duration of Pilot Project: The pilot project will be implemented on the Southern Railway with effect from December 1, 2023, and will remain valid for a period of six months, concluding on May 31, 2024.
7. Continued Applicability of Guidelines: All other existing guidelines regarding charging, restricted and notified commodities, misdeclaration, overloading, etc., will continue to be applicable.

This pilot project represents a proactive step by the Ministry of Railways towards optimizing container transportation and improving overall operational efficiency in the specified region. The implementation period will allow for the assessment of the project’s effectiveness and potential expansion to other railway networks.