In a move aimed at incentivising freight transport and reducing logistics costs, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has announced a waiver of the busy season charge (BSC) for August. The decision, aligned with the ministry of railways’ freight-friendly policies, is expected to benefit a wide spectrum of stakeholders across the region.
As per the current dynamic pricing policy, a 15 per cent busy season charge is levied on goods transported in covered wagons throughout the year, except in September. “However, based on a review by the competent authority, it has now been decided not to levy BSC for August as well,” said Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, chief public relations officer (CPRO), NFR. “This proactive step will help ease freight charges during the monsoon season and encourage higher loading,” he added.
Apart from the BSC waiver, the railway board has also revised norms related to free time allowed at engine-on-load (EOL) terminals. Effective from 17 July, a separate provision has been introduced for BCNHL rakes, allowing 8 hours of free time for both loading and unloading. For all other types of covered wagons, the existing free time of 6 hours remains unchanged.
“These changes are part of the updated rates master circular on demurrage and wharfage waiver,” Mr Sharma said. “The enhanced free time for BCNHL rakes is aimed at improving terminal efficiency, minimising demurrage, and making freight handling more cost-effective for customers.”
According to NFR, both measures underscore its continued focus on building a more flexible, customer-friendly freight ecosystem. “By rationalising charges and streamlining operational guidelines, we aim to support industries, promote rail-based freight transport, and facilitate ease of doing business,” the CPRO said.
Stakeholders have been encouraged to utilise these benefits to optimise logistics planning and reduce transportation overheads.