Railways Waives 15% Peak Season Surcharge

Move aimed at giving a boost to freight and industry in the wake of slowdown

- Yuthika Bhargava

Feeling the pinch of slowdown in economic activity in the country, Indian Railways on Thursday announced a slew of incentives, including waiver of the 15% peak season surcharge on freight transport, to give the industry a boost.

“Considering the current economic scenario, to give a boost to the industry and freight, railways has taken measures to facilitate the industry, especially in reducing rail transport cost,” Member - Traffic Railway Board P.S. Mishra said.

The national transporter will be deferring its ‘busy season charge’ of 15% levied between October 1 and June 30. Additionally, further waiver of the 5% supplementary charge on use of mini rakes will be made to help boost loading of smaller size cargo. “This will help cement, steel, food grains and fertilizer loading,” he said.