The new initiative is designed
to encourage Container Train Operators (CTOs)
and Shipping Lines to establish new container rail services to and from Chennai
Port, with particular emphasis on new and underserved hinterland corridors.
Under the scheme, eligible container rail services operating on new corridors
will be entitled to an 80% concession on Port Railway Charges, providing a
substantial incentive for operators to develop and launch new rail-linked
services through Chennai Port. In addition to the rail charge concession, the
scheme also provides shipping lines with an additional Variable Royalty Charge
(VRC) concession of up to 10% for routing containerized cargo by rail. The Chennai Port Authority said the
initiative is intended to create a focused opportunity for industry
stakeholders to expand rail connectivity, improve access to hinterland markets
and encourage a greater share of container traffic to move through rail-based
transportation. The CPCRPS is
expected to provide greater flexibility and commercial incentives to CTOs and
Shipping Lines while supporting the development of new logistics corridors. By
promoting rail movement of containers, the initiative could also contribute to
more efficient hinterland connectivity and strengthen Chennai Port’s position
as a key gateway for containerised trade.
The
scheme reflects Chennai Port Authority’s continued focus on trade facilitation,
multimodal connectivity and improving logistics efficiency for the EXIM
community. CPCRPS:
Aims to strengthen multimodal connectivity and trade facilitation
through Chennai Port 80% concession on
Port Railway Charges for eligible new-corridor traffic Up to 10% additional VRC concession for
Shipping Lines routing container traffic by rail Focus on new and under-served hinterland
corridors and Opportunity for CTOs and Shipping Lines to establish new
container rail services CTOs and Shipping Lines interested in
exploring opportunities under the scheme can contact the Traffic Department, Chennai
Port Authority, for further details regarding eligibility, eligible corridors
and participation.