DFC boosts cargo efficiency, reduces costs, and modernises India’s rail freight system.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has praised the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) as a transformative project for Indian Railways, calling it the “jewel of Indian Railways” during the 19th Foundation Day of DFCCIL. Currently, 350 goods trains operate daily on the corridor, cutting cargo transportation times by half and reducing logistics costs significantly.
The DFC spans seven states, with its Eastern and Western corridors linking economic hubs such as Dadri, Ludhiana, and JNPT Port. Handling 13 percent of Indian Railways’ freight on just 4 percent of its rail network, the DFC exemplifies efficiency and innovation. Vaishnaw highlighted the need for deeper integration with the Indian Railways network to maximise economic benefits.
DFCCIL, now 96 percent complete, aims to reduce India’s logistics costs from 15 percent to below 9 percent, enhancing trade opportunities. Advanced control centers and cutting-edge rail infrastructure are key to its success, driving industrial growth and job creation along its routes.