The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) is ramping up efforts to increase the average speed of goods trains along the 400-kilometre single-line track under its Ambala unit.
This move aims to maximise corridor utilisation, boost freight traffic, and reinforce sustainable logistics infrastructure in northern India.Currently, the average speed of goods trains on this section hovers between 35 and 40 kilometres per hour, considerably lower than the line’s designed capability of 100 kmph. Although loaded freight trains can run at speeds up to 75 kmph, various speed restrictions, operational detentions, and crossing delays have restrained their overall pace.
Pankaj Gupta, Chief General Manager of DFCCIL Ambala, explained, “We are focusing on raising the average speed to 40-45 kmph. This improvement will allow more trains to be run efficiently, utilising the corridor’s capacity more effectively.” The corridor presently accommodates around 50 trains daily, nearing its maximum operational threshold of 60 trains per day.To further alleviate congestion, DFCCIL has awarded a tender for a feasibility study on doubling the track under the Ambala unit. Doubling the single-line track will significantly enhance capacity and facilitate smoother, faster freight movement across this critical logistics artery.
The Ambala unit’s jurisdiction recently expanded with the addition of a 220-kilometre section from Khurja to Pilkhani, formerly managed by the Meerut unit. This consolidation is expected to streamline operations and optimise maintenance efficiencies, which are essential for timely freight handling.The corporation is also actively engaging government agencies and private enterprises to encourage the use of the corridor for container and cargo transport. New terminals are under development to improve loading and unloading infrastructure, positioning the corridor as a sustainable alternative to road transport. This shift not only promises to cut logistics costs but also aligns with India’s zero-carbon and eco-friendly transport objectives.
Enhancing average speeds on the Ambala unit’s freight corridor will reduce transit times, making rail freight more competitive and attractive. This aligns with the broader national strategy of modernising logistics through dedicated freight corridors to support economic growth, reduce road congestion, and lower environmental impact.
As India strengthens its freight infrastructure, initiatives such as this underscore a commitment to efficient, sustainable, and inclusive transportation systems that benefit industries, consumers, and the environment alike.
