In view of the recent thrust given in freight train operation by NFR, the loading scenario of items which are moved by freight trains has shown marked improvement. This increase can be called noteworthy because the entire train operation including loading/unloading has to be performed by observing all COVID related protocols like social distancing etc. In comparison to April to July of 2019, the loading of cement has increased by 188.9%during April to July of 2020 Similarly, loading of petroleum products during April to July, 2020increased by 8.2% in comparison to the same period last year.
Loading of food-grains in the month of July 2020 increased by 51.95% in comparison to the same month last year. Similarly container loading during the month of July 2020 has also increased by 20% in comparison to July 2019. It may be mentioned here that, in order to improve transportation of freight traffic during the lockdown period NFR has been opening new stations for handling inward and outward goods traffic. In order to get additional freight traffic, Business Development Units (BDUs) have already been formed at Zonal and Divisional level.
Interactions are being done by these BDUs forgetting additional freight traffic. This has helped in getting new traffic and new customers. Punctual running of goods trains is being ensured by NFR through constant monitoring.NFR has already improved the facilities and infrastructures at all the loading un-loading terminal by improving approach road, better lighting, restrooms for labours, drinking water facilities etc. that loading/unloading work can go on unhindered and local economy continue to get the support. On the other hand, it will also help Indian Railways to achieve the target of doubling its freight volume being carried by 2024
