India grants container train operators a single nationwide licence to boost rail freight

The ministry said container train operators can now run on any Indian railway line after paying a single fee, similar to the truck National Permit system. The reform eliminates the old route-by-route licence categories and is meant to increase rail-based container traffic, ease highway congestion and lower emissions. With 22 operators currently active, officials expect more private firms to enter the market. The move comes as the rail network is almost fully electrified and rail freight remains cheaper than road haulage.