Chambers want PPP in railways

With the date for tabling of the railway budget drawing near, the industry chambers are seeking greater public-private participation (PPP) in the expansion of railway infrastructure and upgradation of technology.

With the date for tabling of the railway budget drawing near, the industry chambers are seeking greater public-private participation (PPP) in the expansion of railway infrastructure and upgradation of technology.

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Among its recommendations, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has said, “PPP must essentially involve sharing of risk and rewards on investments between both partners in the process.”

The CII said the government should facilitate PPP in sectors such as wagon leasing and terminal development.

The industry body has also suggested the need for improving technology, as this would lead to increased efficiency and greater cargo volumes.

In its memorandum, the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) has stressed that more freight would come to railways only if they become more price competitive, adequately address capacity constraints on the high density corridors and the connecting network, improve terminal management, upgrade rolling stocks and — more importantly — move goods with speed and safety.