Indian Railways has achieved a 170% rise in cement transportation over the last four months following reforms introduced in November to promote bulk cement movement through specialised container wagons.
Reviewing the reforms, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the new environment-friendly “Make in India” tank containers have simplified loading and unloading, reduced material loss, lowered logistics costs and improved turnaround time. The containers enable direct movement of cement from factories to construction sites, cutting handling stages and making cement supply more efficient.
The reforms are expected to reduce overall construction costs, supporting affordable housing for poor and middle-class families. Increased rail transport of cement is also helping reduce road congestion, fuel consumption and emissions by lowering dependence on trucks.
Following the success in cement logistics, Railways is now focusing on expanding fly ash transportation. The minister urged officials to tap the huge potential of fly ash generated by thermal power plants and use it for cement, bricks and infrastructure projects under a “waste to wealth” approach.
Railways aims to increase its share in transporting fly ash, which can help reduce pollution, promote recycling and support sustainable infrastructure development across the country.
