Indian Railways (IR) is likely to upgrade its bidding guidelines for awarding Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs) and double the number of existing terminals. Under the new rules, bidders will be allowed to place negative bids or offer higher premiums to secure operating rights for the GCTs. This move comes in response to increasing demand from logistics companies. In some cases, bidders have offered to waive terminal charges and terminal access charges entirely, and even provide additional revenue to IR. Recent examples include the New Sakhun, New Gothangam, and New Bhaupur GCTs, all located on the dedicated freight corridor (DFC).
Reportedly, the availability of free-of-cost land in these projects has enabled bidders to monetise the assets and offer a premium to IR.