Railways abolishes dual freight rate

Indian Railways has abolished the dual freight rate policy for transportation of iron ore to boost freight traffic volumes. This is also in response to a long-standing demand from the industry for uniform rates.Currently, transportation of iron ore meant for exports attracts a freight rate that is Rs 300 per tonne, higher than the rate for domestic use in steel and cement industries. The dual freight rate policy had fuelled diversion of the ore meant for domestic use to exports.