What happened
The Ministry of Railways launched the Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminal (GCT) policy to encourage setting up of cargo terminals through private investment. Location of GCTs is decided using demand from industry, potential cargo traffic, availability of railway infrastructure, and overall logistics potential of the area.
Background and earlier position
The government frames GCTs as rail-connected logistics nodes meant to expand freight handling capacity and improve efficient movement of bulk and other commodities across India. The government also states that GCTs handle both bulk and non-bulk commodities across multiple sectors.
What changed now
The Ministry of Railways reported commissioning of 142 Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs). The government also reported granting In-Principle Approvals (IPAs) for the development of GCTs at 310 more locations. The government reported an estimated freight handling capacity of 224 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) for the 142 commissioned GCTs, freight handled at these terminals during 2025-26 as 146 MT, and private investment mobilised through these GCTs as approximately ₹10,000 crore.
Related current affairs
- Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminal (GCT) policy: 142 terminals commissioned; private investment mobilised; IPAs for additional terminals including in J&K
- Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Reviews Progress of NHLML Projects; Calls for Expeditious Completion of Multimodal Infrastructure Initiatives
- Indian Railways Approves ₹226 Crore Electronic Interlocking Project for 13 Stations of Raipur Division in SECR
- Cabinet approves four rail multi-tracking projects to add ~410 km and boost capacity in four states
- Cabinet approves 46.039 km Greenfield Ganga Elevated Corridor in Varanasi to ease congestion and improve connectivity
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