Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that Indian Railways aims to generate an additional Rs 300 billion (bn) in revenue over the next three years through the rollout of new Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs). The revised Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal policy is expected to boost freight loading from sectors including automotive, cement, containerised freight and salt. Officials indicated that many underutilised goods sheds will be developed into full-fledged cargo facilities to increase handling capacity.

The minister noted that the existing 124 Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals are expected to rise to over 500 in the next five years as part of network expansion and policy simplification. Legacy rail sidings developed under earlier policies can migrate to the simplified GCT framework, which should facilitate private and public participation. The policy changes aim to reduce procedural bottlenecks and encourage modal shift from road to rail for medium and long-haul consignments.

To enhance safety, the Railways will optionally undertake maintenance on private-sector owned stretches that connect terminals to main lines on a payment basis, a measure intended to curb accidents and improve reliability. The initiative is framed as voluntary and seeks to balance private operator responsibility with central maintenance capacity. Stakeholders were advised that clearer maintenance arrangements should reduce service disruptions.

Vaishnaw also emphasised passenger service improvements under a wider reform agenda to be implemented during 2026, with a stated target of 52 reforms in 52 weeks. Initiatives include improved hygiene standards, particularly in general class coaches, and proper end-to-end cleaning of long-distance trains to raise overall travel experience. Officials expect increased freight volumes and new terminals to underpin the additional revenue projections.