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Showing posts with label MOU. Show all posts
Showing posts with label MOU. Show all posts

Wednesday, 23 October 2019

08:05

Multi Modal Logistics and Integrated Warehouse Complex -DFCCIL

Multi Modal Logistics and Integrated Warehouse Complex -DFCCIL
NEW DELHI: Having begun trial runs on the part of Eastern DFC, DFCCIL is gearing itself for creation of upgradation of terminal facilities along its route which is to be commissioned in totality by December 2021. In this regard, an MoU was signed between DFCCIL and CRWC (Central Railside Warehouse Company Ltd) for utilizing the services of the latter for upgrading and creating Multi-Modal Logistics Parks and Integrated Warehousing Complexes along or near DFCCIL rail network.
CRWC is already operating 19 rail side warehouse complexes across the country with a capacity of 3.5 lakh tonnes. This synergy between DFCCIL and CRWC is expected to give a boost to traffic to be carried over through DFCCIL by making the transport over DFCCIL complete and integrated with warehousing, and last-mile connectivity being provided in a seamless manner. This is bound to reduce logistics costs and thereby attract more traffic from other modes.
CRWC, a PSU under the Ministry of Food, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution is facilitating faster unloading/loading of cargo and turn around of rolling stock beside safe storage of cargo.
The MoU was signed on 21/10/2019 by Shri Anurag Kumar Sachan, Managing Director, DFCCIL and Shri Narinder Kumar Grover, Managing Director, CRWC when Shri Arun Kumar Shrivastava, Managing Director, Central Warehousing Corporation was also present.
Source:RailNews

Saturday, 18 February 2017

08:43

Delhi Metro to bring in World’s first Transit Rating system

Delhi Metro to bring in World’s first Transit Rating system

NEW DELHI: The world’s first transit rating system, which caters exclusively to metro networks, was unveiled at the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation’s head office here on Wednesday.

With this, the Metro Bhawan has also become the first building in the country to achieve a certification by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).

The DMRC, along with the US Green Building Council (USGBC) and the Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), announced the LEED for transit rating system, designed specifically to address the needs of transit systems around the world.

“Delhi Metro Rail Corporation will be the first metro network in the world to pursue the pilot – LEED v4 O+M: Transit – for its stations in Delhi-NCR. Also, the Metro Bhawan is the first building to pursue and achieve LEED certification,” said a statement released by the DMRC.

LEED is an international certification, which provides a framework to building owners and operators for identifying and implementing practical green building solutions. It was introduced for transit purposes after a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the DMRC, the USGBC and the GBCI in October 2015.

To assess the functioning of metro stations, an ‘arc performance platform’ has been released, which will track performance based on five categories — energy, water, waste, transportation, and human experience.

Developed with inputs from the DMRC, the new system will allow operational transit facilities to benchmark efficiencies and demonstrate continual improvement.

Amitabh Kant, CEO of NITI Aayog, said, “LEED v4 is based on actual performance parameters. The DMRC’s initiative will also motivate other metros to take environment-friendly measures and achieve this certification.”

Source:RailNews

Tuesday, 18 October 2016

08:24

Can Germany help Indian trains run on time?

Can Germany help Indian trains run on time?
Aiming to reduce travel time by trains, India has entered into a pact with Germany to deepen collaboration in the field of railways and high speed trains.
With an objective of reducing travel time significantly, India has signed a memorandum of understanding with Germany for running high-speed trains in the country.
The agreement was reached during talks between German minister for transport Alexander Dobrindt and railways minister Suresh Prabhu at Rail Bhavan in New Delhi on Friday.
The ministers focused on deepening collaboration and strengthening ties in field of railways and high-speed trains.
An MoU was signed between Indian Railways and DB Engineering and Consulting GmbH.
FOCUS ON SPEED AND SAFETY
Germany will help in increasing speed of trains in India. The railway corridors for increasing speed are to be identified by the Indian railways soon. Germany will also help in station redevelopment plan of the railways in a big way.
The 300-kmph high speed bullet corridor, Mysore-Bengaluru- Chennai will be extended upto Vijayawada. Germany will commence a study for extending the corridor from January next year.
Germany will also share its expertise in reducing accidents on railway tracks. Indian railways hopes to accomplish its zero-accident mission with the help of Germany.
A working group has been constituted on railway safety comprising experts from Germany and India. Dobrindt is in India as part of the follow up of Prabhu’s visit to Germany in April this year.

Source:Rail News 

Friday, 9 September 2016

06:49

IRCTC, state to fund senior BPL citizens' pilgrimages

IRCTC, state to fund senior BPL citizens' pilgrimages

RANCHI: The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation (JTDC) on Tuesday entered into an understanding for jointly bearing the expenses of pilgrimages undertaken by BPL senior citizens.
Chief minister Raghubar Das and IRCTC chairman cum managing director Dr A K Manocha oversaw the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signature that cleared the deck for the implementation of Mukhyamantri Teerth Yojana which got the cabinet nod last month.
Under the understanding, the IRCTC will run two special trains to Puri (Odisha) and ferry 1,000 pilgrims every month. The pilgrims will be fed, lodged and taken out for sightseeing by IRCTC while the expenses will be borne by JTDC.
"The train will have on board paramedics to take care of health needs and will be brought under travel insurance (applicable under accidents). The IRCTC will arrange for hospital if anyone falls ill. A caretaker will also be allowed to accompany the pilgrims," Manocha said after the agreement at the railway officer's guest house.
Sources said two trains will be initially run by the IRCTC. The first train from Hatia to Puri is expected to run on November 15. The pilgrims, all from BPL families, will be shortlisted by JTDC. JTDC has allocated Rs 1.5 crore for the scheme. "There are plans to extend the services to other religious sites across India in the coming months," a senior IRCTC official said.
The IRCTC has recently entered into a MoU with the Punjab government for ferrying special pilgrim trains from this year. Around 110 trains will be run in a phased manner from Punjab, Manocha said.

In the presence of state tourism minister Amar Kumar Bauri, the CM also directed JTDC to plan for sending senior BPL citizens for pilgrimages within Jharkhand on special bus services in area lacking railway connectivity.
Manocha also said the IRCTC is bringing in a new policy for improving on board catering services in premium and other trains.

Source:Times Of India

Tuesday, 30 August 2016

06:57

‘Awesome Assam’ Assam Tourism and IRCTC Tour Packages

‘Awesome Assam’ Assam Tourism and IRCTC Tour Packages

Value addition, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC) and Assam Tourism Development Corporation Limited (ATDC) have joined hands to link their popular packages.le from Assam in getting better tour deals in other parts of the country through the IRCTC.

As per the agreement between the corporations, the IRCTC will act as a booking agent and utilise the ATDC properties and facilities for both inbound and outbound tourists of Assam. On the other hand, the rail tour packages operated by the IRCTC can also be sold from the ATDC.

With ‘Awesome Assam’ as brand entity, the Assam Tourism is also in the process of roping in a big name from either the Indian film world or the sports arena as its brand ambassador to catch the fancy of backpackers. Value-added packages will give a further fillip to the tourism promotion.

Debasish Chandra, Group Generurists from outside to the excellent locations in Assam, and the MoU, initially for a period of two years, would bring flexibility into that. The IRCTC can bring tourists both by train and air. There is immense potential to extend this tie-up to other northeastern states,” he said.

As per government data, in 2015-16 a total of 5,642,950 domestic tourists and 26,320 foreign tourists visited Assam. In the past decade, domestic tourist visits recorded an average annual growth of 15.3 per cent and foreign tourist visits registered 8.2 per cent growth in the state.

“There would be a fund pool for such packages and the ATDC will allow the IRCTC to use its local network and enterprise resources for ensuring smooth operation of the tour packages and maximum convenience to the tourists. The packages can also be extended to our tour operators for a wider reach,” said ATDC Managing Director Anurag Singh.

Domestic tourists who travel by train will be greatly benefitted through the composite tour packages of the ATDC and IRCTC, which would be offered on concessional rates by both the parties involved.

The most popular tour circuits operated by the ATDC, including the Guwahati-Shillong-Cherrapunjee trip, religious tour package within Guwahati, and visits to Kaziranga, Manas and other wildlife tourism spots, would get further boost through this tie-up.

Seeking a long-term cooperation with the IRCTC, the ATDC would soon launch eco-tourism training for both urban and rural youth around the destinations.

“Initially, 50 locations, including Merbeel, Dibru-Saikhowa and Pobitora have been chosen across the state for specialised training for eco-tourism. After the training, the trainees will be able to start their eco-tourism projects and camps, including home stays in remote locations,” the ATDC MD said.

Source:RailNews

Sunday, 28 August 2016

06:31

China’s largest train maker launches India ops with Haryana factory

China’s largest train maker launches India ops with Haryana factory
China’s biggest high-speed train and railway equipment maker announced that its first joint venture in India has started operations over the weekend in Haryana, in an indication that Sino-India cooperation in the railways sector was poised to take off.
It is for the first time that the Beijing-based China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) – a mammoth state-owned enterprise (SOE) in China with more than 175,000 employees – was setting up a joint venture in south Asia.
A subsidiary of the company has supplied subway trains for the Rio De Janeiro Olympics.
Its first plant in North America started operations in September 2015 in Massachusetts.
The Sino-India joint venture, expected to manufacture and repair locomotive engines, is being called the CRRC Pioneer (India) Electric Company and has been set up in the Bavo Industrial sector in Haryana, on the New Delhi and Mumbai industrial corridor.
“Total investment is $ 63.4 million and the Chinese side holds 51% of the share,” the CRRC said in a statement.
“It will also provide technology support to India’s rail system, and supply electric transmission systems to oil drilling, wind power generation and mining equipment making in India,” the statement said.
“It is the first time for the company to open a plant in south Asia where one of the world’s most comprehensive rail system spans. CRRC is also the first foreign company to set up assembly line of rail transportation equipment in India after PM Narendra Modi unveiled his ambitious ‘Made in India’ campaign in 2014,” it added.
The Chinese company has been present in the Indian market since 2007, supplying subway trains, engines and other equipment.
It will, however, be the first time that CRRC begins manufacturing in India.
“Given more than 60,000 kilometres of railways in India, it is far from enough to build a single locomotive engine plant in India,” company vice-president Yu Weiping said.
“CRRC will build more plants able to produce trains, locomotive traction systems and other key parts in India,” he added.
CRRC Corporation was formed in 2015 following a merger between China CNR Corporation Limited and CSR Corporation Limited and has since focussed on foreign markets.
In March, the Delhi Metro Rail Corp and CRRC Nanjing signed a Memorandum of Understanding for supply of 19 four-car train sets for the Noida metro.

Wednesday, 6 July 2016

07:28

Container Digital Exchange (CODEX) goes live in Tuticorin

Container Digital Exchange (CODEX) goes live in Tuticorin

Tuticorin: VO Chidamabaranar Port Trust in Tuticorin and Tuticorin Container Freight Station Association have jointly announced that India’s First Container Digital Exchange (Codex) went live on 1 July.

The platform was successfully processed in over 42,000 containers during pilot run of the project, thereby eliminating paper documents accompanying container movement at the port.

Association president David Raja in a press release said all the major stakeholders, including shippers, shipping lines and agents, will now have complete access to container movement through both online portal and the mobile application.

Kale Logistics Solutions, which developed Codex, announced the Go Live of the platform at the end of three months of pilot run.

The release said that the Go Live was executed today by the Chief Commissioner of Customs Chennai Pranab Kumar Das, VOC Port Trust S Anantha Chandra Bose and Commissioner of Customs Tuticorin KC Johny at a function in Tuticorin.

Container Digital Exchange (CODEX) is an EDI based electronic platform through which communication, information exchange, connectivity and electronic processing of key business transactions/operations can be facilitated between all container stake-holders at the Port and its related logistics value chain.

Last year, Tuticorin CFS Association (TCFSA) and Kale Logistics jointly signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deliver India’s first Container Digital Exchange (CODEX), which will automate the container movement at Tuticorin Port and reduce the container dwell times considerably.

As per the MoU, TCFSA and Kale Logistics have agreed to co-operate with a view to provide a Digital Community platform to enable effective management of cargo information & documentation flows such that it eliminates/reduces manual paperwork considerably. This move promises to improve and contribute to the seamless movement of Export Import containers in and out of the Tuticorin Port from/to the Tuticorin based CFS/ICDs. The CODEX platform will electronically connect CFS/ICDs, Transporters, Port authority, Customs, Port terminal Operators and Security forces (Central Industrial Security Force-CISF).

This development is a path breaking and pioneering initiative in enabling ease of business, and following the Honorable Prime Minister’s initiative of “Digital India” Mr. S. Anantha Chandra Bose, Chairman, V.O.Chidamabaranar (Tuticorin) Port Trust said,  “Tuticorin is a progressive and  prominent port in the region. We have recently expanded the Port Gates and are introducing Toll Gate to enable Seamless access to the port. The Container Digital Exchange is the first of its kind initiative at an Indian Port which promises to reduce the current documentation process from 2 hours to almost 1/4th its time.”

Mr. David Raja, President – TCFSA stated, “We were impressed with the work Kale Logistics has done on Airport cargo handling side for Mumbai Airport and also at other port CFS/ICDs in India and abroad. They completely understand our business and that of our extended logistics value chain. With the CODEX platform, we look forward to better manage multiple document exchange between our members & trade partners, streamline the processes involved in container movement, track queue issue at port and reduce overall dwell time.”

“We are already in the space of developing Cargo Community Platforms, having created India’s first Cargo Community Platform UPLIFT back in 2011. Hence, it gives us tremendous confidence to once again deliver India’s first Container Digital Exchange for the Port User community. Since, we have prominent CFS/ICD system installations in India and other countries, we exactly know what Global Technology  practices needs to be followed for a progressive port like Tuticorin.” Said Mr. Vineet Malhotra, Senior Vice President- Kale Logistics Solutions.

Source:RailNews

Tuesday, 10 May 2016

16:11

Indian Railway signed MoUs with 12 countries on Technical Cooperation in the last 2 years

Indian Railway signed MoUs with 12 countries on Technical Cooperation in the last 2 years

New Delhi: Ministry of Railways have signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs)/Protocols during the last two years for technical cooperation in the rail sector with the following foreign countries or their Railways : (i) Sweden, (ii) France , (iii) Japan, (iv) Russia (v) United Kingdom (vi) Slovak Republic, (vii) Kazakhstan (viii) Canada, (ix) South Korea, (x) China, (xi) Czech Republic and (xii) Germany. The MoUs /Protocols enable technical visits, exchange of technical experts, reports and documents, training programme, feasibility studies/pilot projects etc.

The ongoing cooperation projects through these MoUs/Protocol are as under:-

(i) China:- (a) High Speed Rail feasibility study for Delhi-Nagpur section, (b) Feasibility study for upgradation of Speeds to 160 kmph on Chennai-Bengaluru-Mysore corridor, (c) Training Programme for Indian Railway Officers on Heavy-haul Technology.

(ii) South Korea: – Feasibility Study for speed raising of Delhi-Mumbai route to 200 km/h.

(iii) Japan: – Mumbai- Ahmedabad High Speed Rail Project- Technical and financial assistance

(iv) France: – (a) Technical and Execution Study for upgrading the speed of passenger trains between Delhi-Chandigarh upto 200 kmph (b) renovation/development study of Ludhiana and Ambala railway stations.

(v) Germany: – Feasibility study for High Speed Rail of one route as mutually agreed.

Friday, 4 March 2016

07:26

MoUs with Japan and Russia in the various fields of Railways

MoUs with Japan and Russia in the various fields of Railways 

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was today apprised of the following Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) and Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs):-

(i)      The MoC signed between   Ministry of Railways (MoR) and Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), Japan on technological cooperation in Rail Sector on 11th December 2015. 

(ii)     The MoU signed between Ministry of Railways and Joint Stock Company "Russian Railways" on technical cooperation in railway sector on 24th December 2015.

(iii)    The MoU signed between Research Design & Standards Organization (RDSO) and Railway Technical Research Institute (RTRI), Japan on technological cooperation in railway sector on 11th December 2015.

Background

Ministry of Railways have signed MoC/MoUs for technical cooperation in the rail sector with various foreign Governments and National Railways. The identified areas of cooperation include high speed corridors, speed raising of existingroutes, development of world class stations, heavy haul operations and modernization of rail infrastructure, etc. The cooperation is achieved through exchange of information on developments in areas of railways technologyoperations, knowledge sharing, technical visits, training & seminars and workshops in areas of mutual interest.

The MoUs provide a platform for Indian Railways to interact and share the latest developments and knowledge in the railway sector. The MoUs facilitate exchange of technical experts, reports and technical documents, training and seminars/workshops focusing on specific technology areas and other interactions for knowledge sharing.

 (i)       The Memorandum of Cooperation between MoR and MLIT of Japanwill enable technical cooperation in the following areas:-
(a)    Railway Safety;
(b)    Rolling stock including train sets/EMU;
(c)    Information sharing for station development and land value capture;
(d)    Information sharing for environment friendly Sanitation technology in trams;
(e)    Signaling and telecommunication;
(f)     Railway Electrification;
(g)    Civil structure and railway track system;
(h)    Train control system;   
(i)     Mitigation of natural disasters; and
(j)     Any other areas jointly determined by both Sides.

This MoC is valid for a period of three years. Thereafter it will be automatically renewed for further period of two years.

(ii)       The   MoU   signed   between Ministry of Railways   and   Russian Railways provides for technical cooperation in the following areas:

a)   High Speed Rail (HSR) in India;
b)   Modernization of existing lines of the Indian railways in order to raise train speeds up to 160-200 kmph;
c)   Modern Control and safety related Systems based on satellite navigation and digital communication means,
d)   Satellite and geo- information technologies;
e)   Transportation safety and cyber security;      
f)   Rolling stock;
g)  Heavy haul transportation;                        
h)   Organization of Human Resources training for the Indian Railways: secondary and higher vocational education of students and advanced training of staff members including managers;
i)    Station redevelopment
j)     Dedicated freight rail corridors;     
k) Modernization, reconstruction and construction of track superstructure,civil engineering works, including bridges and tunnels; and
l)      Slab tracks.

This MoU is valid for a period of three years. Thereafter, it will be automatically renewed for further successive period of two years.

(iii) The MoU signed between RDSO, India and RTRI, Japan provides for technical cooperation in the following areas:-  

(a)    Safety in train operation;
(b)    Advanced techniques of maintenance;
(c)    Use of environment friendly technologies;
(d)    Throughput enhancement measures; and
(e)    Any other area jointly agreed upon by the Parties.

This MoU is valid for a period of three years and it may be renewed for further period of one year at a time with mutual written agreement.

Source:PIBNEWS

Wednesday, 2 March 2016

20:24

Delhi metro to start cargo services on the airport express line on an experimental basis

Delhi metro to start cargo services on the airport express line on an experimental basis

Delhi metro to start cargo services on the airport express line on an experimental basis
he Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has decided to start cargo services on the Airport Express line on an experimental basis from next month onwards.

From the 1st of March onwards, cargo services for the transportation of non-perishable/e-commerce items will be facilitated through the Airport Express line. DMRC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a specialised cargo agency for the purpose.

The agency will utilise the Airport Express line for transporting cargo between the New Delhi and IGI Airport Metro stations on a trial basis for three months. Prohibited items as per statutory rules or as notified by DMRC from time to time shall not be allowed and the cargo will be transferred after the necessary security checks.

This would be the first ever occasion, when a Metro system in India would be used for the transportation of cargo. These trials would help in accessing the cargo volumes that could be potentially be generated on this route on both directions, especially e-commerce cargo. Based on the experience, a tender for a long term arrangement shall be floated.

This initiative will also reduce the consumption of fossil fuels, CO2 emission and improve the air quality as less number of cargo vehicles will ply on the roads as a result. It will also be possible to transport cargo faster to and from the airport since a journey by road to the airport would take much longer time.

The Airport Express line trains have dedicated coaches for luggage which is separate from the passenger coaches. Therefore, the introduction of the cargo services will not cause any inconvenience to the general commuters at all.

The Airport Express is India’s only dedicated high speed Metro connection between the city and the airport. It is suited for the transportation of cargo since there is a separate coach for luggage and the services are available all through the day from 5.15 in the morning till 11.30 pm late in the night.

Source:scrrail

Saturday, 6 February 2016

07:21

Labour and Employment Ministry Sign Eight MoU with Leading Agencies Connecting Job Providers and Jobseekers

Labour and Employment Ministry Sign Eight MoU with Leading Agencies Connecting Job Providers and Jobseekers

Shri P PMitra, Principal Labour and Employment Advisor and DG (Employment), Ministry of Labour and Employment signed eight Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) here today with leading organizations engaged in employment and career related activities in presence of  Shri BandaruDattatreya, MoS(IC) Labour and Employment.Shri Shankar Aggarwal, the secretary L&E and other senior officers of the Ministry were also present.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Bandaru Dattatreya called upon the industry to come forward and take advantage of the National Career Service (NCS) portal for getting skilled workforce. Referring to MoUs, he said that this partnership will provide transparent and credible platform and will save both employers and job seekers from possible fraudulent practices.  The Minister said that Government has taken this bold new initiative to link all the employment exchanges on a national platform so that more and more jobs can be accessed by youth. The government emphasizing on generating employment opportunities had decided to transform Employment Exchanges to Career Centres for offering counselling and guidance to the youth, he added.

Employment opportunities being a national priority, it is also equally important to provide information on jobs to the teeming and aspiring population. NCS is thus partnering with organizations operating in various domains. ISF (Indian Staffing federation) will facilitate quality jobs to be made available on the NCS from leading private placement organizations. Uber will provide micro-entrepreneurship opportunities to drivers who register on the NCS portal as Local Service Providers. Monste.comr, Quik Jobsr, Tech Mahindra(Saral Rozgar), Babajob.com will offer jobs opportunities to NCS registered users. Get Ahead Fast will provide career guidance to youth through multimedia content from industry leaders. India Old Age will meet the requirements of industry for retired and experienced professionals who are available for work. 

Shri Shankar Agarwal, the Secretary L&E said that NCS has been implemented to act as an integrated platform for all key stakeholders like industry, central government, state government, PSUs etc. to join hands in realizing India’s aspirations of becoming a globally competitive workforce. This IT enabled platform will provide credible information to and from job provider and job seeker about each other.  These MoUs are only the first step in this journey and we look forward to more such strategic partnerships.

Earlier in his welcome address,the Principal Labour and Economic Advisor, Shri P.P.Mitra said that the ( NCS)  is enabling platform for job provider and jobseeker, is being leveraged to guide youth for making the right career choice and position India to meet the global demand for skilled workforce.”

National Career Service initiative was launched in 2015 as an ICT based platform for providing employment services to public, at the URL www.ncs.gov.in.  A multilingual toll free helpline 1800-425-1514 is also operational to help jobseekers.

The Government has also launched Make in India, Skill India, Digital India, Start-up India etc. to boost the economy as well as generate large employment opportunities for youth. NCS aims to meet the aspirations of youth for jobs with the industry demand and has evolved a policy for entering into partnerships with leading organisations. These strategic interventions will enhance career and employment opportunities, offer counselling and guidance for career development, focus on decent employment, enhance female labour force participation, encourage entrepreneurial endeavors, focus on inclusive growth initiatives, facilitate transition of workforce from informal to formal sectors, engage with rural workforce for higher productivity, facilitate re-employment (second-life) opportunities for returning and retired workforce etc.

Source:PIBNEWS

Saturday, 30 January 2016

19:38

The MoU was signed by Mr. Sivasankar for the State and Executive Director, Works, Ved Prakash Dudeja for the Railway Board.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Sivasankar for the State and Executive Director, Works, Ved Prakash Dudeja for the Railway Board.

The government has asked the departments of Law and Finance to vet the shareholders’ agreement for a joint-venture company to be formed by the Railways and the State.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to set up the company for undertaking project development, financing and implementing identified railway projects in the State on a cost-sharing-basis was signed in Delhi on January 27.

The scrutiny is in the wake of the Railways’ directive to the State to furnish comments, suggestions and modifications, if any, on the shareholders’ agreement by the month-end.

Transport Secretary M. Sivasankar told The Hindu that the copy of the shareholders’ agreement has already been given to the two departments without waiting for a formal letter.

After getting the departments’ report, the Transport Department will submit the State’s version to the Railways. As per the MoU, the State will have 51 per cent equity share and the Railways 49 per cent in the company, which will have an authorised share capital of Rs.200 crore with the initial paid up capital of Rs. 100 crore.

The Transport Department, which also handles railway matters in the State, has also initiated steps as per the “Way Forward’’ provided to the State to set up the company. The State and the Railways have to post a nodal officer each for implementing the MoU.

The Railways have hinted that they prefer a top IAS officer, preferably the Chief Secretary of the State, as the part-time chairman of the company. The Managing Director, a full-time post, has to be selected by a committee comprising representatives of the State and the Railways.

The Articles of Association and the Memorandum of Association need to be formed and filed with the Registrar of Companies to form the company.

“The attempt is to form the special purpose vehicle (SPV) within a month,” Mr. Sivasankar said.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Sivasankar for the State and Executive Director, Works, Ved Prakash Dudeja for the Railway Board.

Commercially viable railway projects will be identified jointly and entrusted to the SPV for execution on a fast-track basis.

Government asks Law and Finance departments to vet the shareholders’ agreement

Source:The Hindu 

Tuesday, 26 January 2016

18:02

MUD seeks comments on HP’s demand for Chandigarh Metro roll up to Baddi

MUD seeks comments on HP’s demand for Chandigarh Metro roll up to Baddi

Chandigarh: As the process for finalisation of the Metro project is underway among Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh, the Government of India has sought comments from the Chandigarh Administration on the request of the Himachal Pradesh to extend the Metro up to the industrial town of Baddi.

Sources said the Government of Himachal Pradesh wrote a letter to the Government of India expressing its desire to extend the Metro up to Baddi.

In the letter, the Additional Chief Secretary, Himachal Pradesh, said that extending Metro up to Baddi would benefit a large number of people of the tricity as they commute every day to this industrial city. Ajay Mittal, Additional Chief Secretary, Himachal Pradesh, confirmed raising the demand before the Government of India. He said Himachal Pradesh was happy to be a partner in the project.

Baddi is an industrial town of Solan district which is a leading industrial centre of Himachal Pradesh. It is a part of an industrial corridor, stretching from Barotiwala to Nalagarh, along the western border of Solan district. Many national and multi-national companies have already set up large plants at Baddi. The town is also emerging as one of the best educational centres of Himachal Pradesh. Many new reputed schools and universities have come up there.

The proposed Metro route envisages two corridors for the project: the East-West corridor that will extend from the Grain Market in Sector 21, Panchkula, to the Transport Terminus at Mullanpur and the North-South corridor that will run from near the Capitol Complex in Sector 1 to Gurdwara Shaheedan in Mohali.
When contacted, Sarbjit Singh, Finance Secretary, Chandigarh Administration, said, “We had conveyed to the Government of India to get the feasibility study done on the proposal of Himachal Pradesh.” He said any decision on the proposal would be taken at the level of the Central Government on the basis of the feasibility study regarding the possible traffic volume, route and other related things.

At present, the Administration is in the process of preparing the revised DPR for the Metro project. In July this year, Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to implement the integrated multi-modal mass transport system for the Chandigarh region, comprising Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula.

As part of the MoU, they had named the special purpose vehicle to execute the project as the Greater Chandigarh Transport Corporation (GCTC). The initial equity of the GCTC was to be Rs 100 crore, which was to be equally contributed (25 per cent each) by the Union Ministry of Urban Development, the UT, Haryana and Punjab.

The proposed Metro envisages two corridors for the project: the East-West corridor that will extend from the Grain Market in Sector 21, Panchkula, to the Transport Terminus at Mullanpur and the North-South corridor that will run from near the Capitol Complex in Sector 1 to Gurdwara Shaheedan in Mohali.

Tuesday, 19 January 2016

06:54

Noida Metro :Noida Metro on track, DMRC Chief reviews progress of works

Noida Metro:Noida Metro on track, DMRC Chief reviews progress of works

Delhi Metro Managing Director Mangu Singh reviewed the progress of construction of the Noida-Greater Noida Metro on Saturday. Expressing satisfaction on the progress of the 29.9 km track connecting the twin cities, Singh directed officials to adopt several measures to further expedite work along the corridor. Singh’s directions came after a presentation on the progress was made by project director Pramit Garg in Noida.

According to Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) officials, Singh also assured mobilisation of three new sets of cranes to work along the corridor. “With these new cranes, we will be able to start laying the U-girders from the first week of March,” said a DMRC official. “Our MD has further said tenders in the pipeline for the route, including for signalling, telecom, automatic fare collection and rolling stock track, will also be expedited,” he said.

During the meeting, Singh emphasised the need for environmental control measures. “Dust control measures are already being adopted. Our chief also reiterated the need for sprinkling water on aggregates and following National Green Tribunal directions,” the DMRC official said. “Singh has also expressed satisfaction with the progress of work on the depot in Greater Noida. We should be able to receive trains for the track as per schedule, by April/May 2017,” he added.

Third-party surveillance for quality control on the corridor will also start soon. A draft memorandum of understanding (MoU) for monitoring of the track has been readied, with the final MoU to be completed within a week, and work begun thereafter.

According to Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC) officials, a request for proposal for an independent quality monitoring agency (IQMA) had been initiated in July last year. The government-run engineering consultancy company Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES) has been appointed in the role, and will oversee all civil works for the corridor. “RITES will be also responsible for a range of tasks, which include supervising works of the project, besides evaluating quality and environmental aspects. The agency will assist in monitoring quality for all civil works,” said an NMRC official.

The agency’s work also includes evaluation of bids for civil work of the Metro project. It will be expected to assist in appointing contractors, reviewing and proof-checking detailed designs, and preparing of the design and documents of the tender, for procurement of track work, system components, supply supervision and other duties.

As per officials, t all civil works for the track will be completed by June 2017. The Metro, which is estimated to cost Rs 5,526 crore, is expected be launched by December 2017.

Monday, 4 January 2016

14:17

Indian Railways looks to Revamp R&D wing, induct new tech

Indian Railways looks to Revamp R&D wing, induct new tech

New Delhi: Railways has constituted a committee to review and streamline induction of new technologies and redefine the role of its R&D wing – Research Design and Standards Organization (RDSO).

Apart from suggesting ways to upgrade the technical capability of railway workshops and production units, the panel will recommend creating a mechanism for incubation of innovative ideas and product development and also address issues related to intellectual property rights.

The committee, comprising railways officers, will also have Niti Aayog member V K Saraswat as a special invitee.

RDSO, IIT-K to work together for Indian Railways

Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with premier institute IIT, Kanpur last fortnight to carry out collaborative research work of the interest of the Railways. For doing the collaborative research, a Centre For Railway Research (CRR) will be set up by Ministry of Railways on the campus of IIT-Kanpur. The centre is expected to start working before the closure of the ongoing financial year.

Wednesday, 16 December 2015

22:37

India and Japan sign 3 Pacts in Railway Sector

India and Japan sign 3 Pacts in Railway Sector

New Delhi: India and Japan have signed an MoU on 12th December, 2015 on cooperation and assistance in the Mumbai – Ahmedabad High Speed Rail Project (referred by many as Bullet Train project).

The two countries have also entered into two comprehensive technological cooperation agreements on 11th December 2015, for modernization and upgradation of Indian Railways.

These agreements have been signed during the official visit to India of His Excellency Mr. Shinzo Abe, the Prime Minister of Japan, during December 11 – 13, 2015.

The details of cooperation envisaged in the three Memorandums are as follows:

1)MoU between India and Japan on cooperation and assistance in the Mumbai – Ahmedabad HSR Project

India and Japan have signed an MoU on 12th December, 2015 on cooperation and assistance in the Mumbai – Ahmedabad High Speed Rail Project (referred by many as Bullet Train project). Japan has offered an assistance of over Rs.79,000 crore for the project. The loan is for a period of 50 years with a moratorium of 15 years, at an interest rate of 0.1 per cent.

The project is a 508 Kilometer railway line costing a total of Rs. 97,636 crore, to be implemented in a period of seven years. It has been agreed that Shinkansen Technology will be adopted for the project.  The cooperation of Japan will be fixed on transfer of technology and “Make in India”. Japan will assist India in training of personnel for HSR.

2) Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between Ministry of Railways and MLIT, Japan on technological cooperation

Areas of Cooperation:

(a) Railway Safety;
(b) Rolling stock including train sets/EMUs;
(c) Information sharing for station development and land value capture;
(d) Information sharing for environment friendly sanitation technology in trains
(e) Signalling and telecommunication;
(f) Railway Electrification;
(g) Civil structure and railway track system;
(h) Train control system;
(i) Mitigation of natural disasters;and
(j) Any other areas jointly determined by both Sides within the scope of this MoC.

3) MoU on technological cooperation between RDSO and Railway Technical Research Institute Japan

The main directions of cooperation between the Parties shall be the development of rail-related technical cooperation in which the Parties may have mutual interest, performance of consultation and other services,

The broad areas of technical cooperation may include:
(i)   Safety in train operation;
(ii)  Advanced techniques of maintenance;
(iii) Use of environment friendly technologies;
(iv) Throughput enhancement measures; and
(v)  Any other area jointly agreed upon by the Parties

Specific projects under the above cooperation areas and modalities of cooperation will be jointly discussed and decided by the parties.

Background

Union Railway Minister Shri Suresh Prabhu had wide-ranging discussions on various aspects of railways – covering modernization, safety and technology upgradation of Indian Railways – during his visit to Japan in September 2015. He held discussions with the concerned Ministers of Japan and met Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

On the investment requirements of Indian Railways, he had discussions with leading financial institutions and investment bankers and explained to them the 5 year USD 140 billion investment plan of Indian Railways. He had discussions with Pension Funds as well, to seek their investments in the Railways.

Another focus was the Technology upgradation of Indian Railways through cooperation of Research Designs and Standards Organization (RDSO) of India and the Japan Railway Technical Research Institute (JRTRI), both key railway research organizations.

The comprehensive technological cooperation as envisaged in the above Memorandums are the result of the above discussions and follow-up.

Tuesday, 8 December 2015

18:59

Kerala:Nilambur-Nanjangud Rail line: Kerala to sign MOU on Dec 10 with Railways

Kerala:Nilambur-Nanjangud Rail line: Kerala to sign MOU on Dec 10 with Railways

Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Union Minister of Railways Suresh Prabhu in New Delhi on December 10 for the implementation of the Nilambur- Nanjangud railway line.

The project will be executed on cost-sharing basis (50 per cent each) between the State and the Railways. The line connecting Kerala and Karnataka is expected to reduce travel time between Wayanad and Mysore to one hour and between Wayanad and Bangalore, three hours.

The project had remained in cold storage for over a decade for multiple reasons, including an unscientific survey conducted of 236 km and financial projection of Rs 4,266 crore. However, it was revived following the intervention of Principal Adviser of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) E. Sreedharan recently.

A topo alignment survey had brought down the distance between Nilambur and Nanjangud to 156 km and cost to Rs. 2,200 crore, said T.M. Rasheed, of Nilgris- Wayanad National Highway and Railway Action Committee, which is spearheading the campaign for the project.

Already the committee had held discussions with the Chief Minister in this regard. The proposed Nanjangud- Sulthan Bathery- Nilambur railway line would not touch the tri-junction of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Another survey is also being carried out by a Chennai-based firm to finalise the alignment, which will focus on the gradient as well. Subsequently, a Detailed Project Report will be prepared and a Special Purpose Vehicle will be formed.

Monday, 7 December 2015

22:10

Indian Railways undertake Rs.14000 Crore PPP Projects

Indian Railways undertake Rs.14000 Crore PPP Projects

New Delhi: Railways have undertaken more than 20 projects worth Rs 14,000 crore during the 12th Five year Plan, including those for laying new lines, doubling the existing ones, enhancing port connectivity and electrifying its network under PPP model.

While seven PPP projects worth Rs 5693 crore are under implementation as part of joint venture model, as many others involving an expenditure of Rs. 2236 crore are being implemented under customer funded model, official sources said.

Three PPP projects worth Rs 3016 crore are being executed through the annuity route and in-principle approval has been accorded to six others worth Rs 3078 crore.

Faced with resource crunch for its mega investment plans, the public transporter is exploring various channels for raising funds.

“We are exploring the PPP models and joint ventures with state governments in a big way for funding infrastructure development,” said a senior Railway Ministry official.

Indian Railway has proposed Rs 8.56 lakh crore investment plan for the next five years and the national transporter expects to execute a sizable chunk of projects through Public-Private Partnership and in collaboration with states.

There are about 16 state governments which have given their in-principle approval for formation of special purpose vehicles (SPVs) to implement rail projects in their respective states, said the official.

Recently Odisha signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Railways to form a SPV for implementation of rail projects in the state.

In order to attract private investment, railways have strengthened the PPP framework besides launching investor-friendly build, operate and transfer (BOT) annuity model to construct new tracks.

According to the official, the participatory policy for rail connectivity was launched in 2012 which has five models including non-government railway model, joint venture model, build operate and transfer model, capacity augmentation with funding provided by customers model and capacity augmentation through annuity model.

During 2002 and 2014, eight port connectivity projects worth about Rs 3153 crore were implemented. These covered the linking of Mundra Port and Pipavav-Surendranagar, Hassan- Mangalore, Gandhidham-Palanpur and Bharauch-Dahej gauge conversion projects. These projects have added about 1030 km of rail lines, the official said.

Besides, railways have offered 400 stations to be redeveloped with private participation for improving passenger amenities inviting open bids from interested parties.

Tuesday, 24 November 2015

00:12

Railway Chair on sustainable mobility at TERI varsity

Railway Chair on sustainable mobility at TERI varsity

Pitching for green energy and innovative solutions for efficient technology management, railways has set up a Chair on sustainable mobility at TERI University here. 

Indian Railways Chair for Sustainable Mobility would focus and promote research on issues of sustainable mobility, use of energy efficient technology and green energy initiatives by the Railways and would facilitate research into finding innovative solutions to these issues. 

The Chair would also focus on research in various aspects of railways that has emerged as crucial mode of transport to achieve sustainable development in the country, according to a MoU signed today in presence of Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu here. 

The university would aim for imparting knowledge and enriching professionals in all aspects of sustainability with a multi-dimensional perspective relevant to railways. 

The Chair is expected to involve itself into issues of sustainable development especially relevant to the rail infrastructure, use of energy efficient technology and green energy initiatives of the Railways and to research into finding innovative solutions to these. 

It should lend strength to the ongoing research and teaching and should open new vistas of research in the field of rail transport.

Source :Business Standard

Wednesday, 4 November 2015

07:34

First railway line to reach India’s poorest district Nabarangpur in “five-six years - Ministry of Railways

First railway line to reach India’s poorest district in “five-six years - Ministry of Railways

In an “early Diwali gift” for the people of Nabarangpur, the Odisha government and Ministry of Railways will shake hands Wednesday on an agreement that is likely to lay the track for the first railway line to reach India’s poorest district in “five-six years”.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for setting up a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) is expected to result in at least six-seven rail projects in the state, including a 40-km link connecting the Nabarangpur district headquarters to the nearest station at Jeypore in neighbouring Koraput district.

Nabarangpur in southern Odisha is the subject of a year-long assignment by The Indian Express titled District Zero, with lack of rail connectivity emerging as a major drawback that has hampered economic growth and led to vacancies in government hospitals, schools and administration.

“All that will soon be a thing of the past if everything goes according to plan. With this MoU in place, we hope to have our first railway line in five-six years. This is an early Diwali gift for all of us in Nabarangpur,” Balabhadra Majhi, Nabarangpur MP, told The Indian Express.

Majhi is a former chief engineer in the railways and a member of the current Lok Sabha standing committee on railways. The BJD MP will be part of the Odisha delegation — including State Transport Minister Ramesh Majhi, officials and other MPs from the state — expected to be present at the signing of the MoU at Rail Bhavan.

When contacted, Minister Ramesh Chandra Majhi said that getting Jeypore connected to Nabarangpur would be the “No. 1 priority” for him. “Both the MP and I belong to Nabarangpur district and our priority will be to get a rail link for the region. We will also connect Jeypore to Malkangiri which will further lead to Bhadrachalam in Andhra Pradesh,” Odisha’s Transport Minister told The Indian Express.

A railway ministry official confirmed that the signing of the MoU would lead to the setting up of an SPV to complete various projects in Odisha. “An SPV is likely to be formed with equity participation from the railways and the Odisha government for this project, with the state chipping in with land as equity,” said the official.

When contacted, a senior state government official confirmed that an MoU was being signed. The official said that a rail link to Nabarangpur would “be a boon” but added that he would not comment on record until the project was officially announced.

MP Majhi said the rail link was held up for so long because it was found to be economically unviable. “Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has decided to go for the SPV model with the state government contributing 51 per cent of the project cost, including land,” he said.

While the Jeypore link will bring a railway line to the southern tip of Nabarangpur, there are also plans to develop a second link from the district to Junagarh in the east in Kalahandi district, said Majhi.

“This will change the social and economic landscape of Nabarangpur in the coming years, leading to new industries coming up, and more government officials and doctors willing to work here. It will be a blessing for our farmers, too, who can get better access to fertilisers and send food grains out in large quantities,” said Majhi.

But there is still some way to go before the line becomes a reality. “The initial survey was completed while discussions were on. There will now be a final location survey, then land acquisition and finally the forest and environment clearance before work can actually start. But if all goes well, we will see the first train reaching Nabarangpur in five-six years,” said Majhi.

Source :The Indian Express.