Why in News?
The Government informed Parliament that 142 Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs) have been commissioned under the Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminal (GCT) Policy, with approvals granted for 310 additional terminals to strengthen rail-based logistics.
What is the Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal (GCT) Policy?
- Launched to promote private investment in rail-linked cargo terminals.
- Supports the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan by improving multimodal logistics.
- GCT locations are selected based on: Industrial demand, Freight potential, Availability of railway infrastructure, and Logistics potential of the region
Key Highlights
- 142 GCTs commissioned across India.
- 310 additional terminals approved.
- Freight handling capacity: 224 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA).
- ₹10,000 crore private investment mobilised.
- Freight handled in 2025-26: 146 Million Tonnes (MT).
Benefits
- Reduces first-mile and last-mile logistics costs.
- Promotes modal shift from road to rail, lowering logistics costs and emissions.
- Improves wagon turnaround and freight efficiency.
- Supports sectors such as: Cement, Steel, Power, Mining, Agriculture, Manufacturing, and Automobiles
Infrastructure Created
- GCTs provide modern logistics facilities such as: Warehouses, Silos, Cold storage, and Rail-linked cargo handling facilities
- These improve market access for industries and farmers while generating employment.
Prelims Value Added
- PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan was launched in 2021 as a GIS-based digital platform for integrated infrastructure planning.
- It aims to improve multimodal connectivity by integrating roads, railways, ports, airports, waterways, and logistics infrastructure.
- MTPA = Million Tonnes Per Annum.
