TFP Bureau, New Delhi, April 22, 2025: The Ministry of Coal hosted a key stakeholder consultation today in New Delhi, focusing on “Exploring the Opportunities for Sustainable Coal Transportation through the Rail-Sea-Rail (RSR) Mode.” The consultation aimed to foster consensus among industry players and government agencies to promote the integration of rail and coastal shipping, providing a more efficient and sustainable coal transportation solution.
In his keynote address, Shri Vikram Dev Dutt, Secretary of the Ministry of Coal, highlighted the RSR model as a progressive initiative aligning with the nation’s broader goals of improving logistical efficiency, enhancing energy security, and promoting environmental sustainability. He emphasized that RSR transportation offers not only an economical alternative but also significantly reduces the carbon footprint compared to traditional methods. Shri Dutt stressed the need for innovative, greener transport systems to meet the growing demand for coal in distant regions, particularly in Southern and Western India.
The consultation saw active participation from stakeholders including representatives from the Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Ministry of Power, State Governments, Coal India Limited (CIL), captive and commercial miners, power generation companies (Gencos), and port operators. These stakeholders shared valuable insights on enhancing intermodal connectivity, deploying mechanized coal handling infrastructure at ports, improving rake availability, and rationalizing port charges.
Ambitious Coal Transportation Goals by FY 2030
The Ministry of Coal has set an ambitious target to transport 120 million tonnes (MT) of coal through the RSR mode by FY 2030, with a goal of 65 MT to be moved via this route by FY 2026. Key initiatives, such as the Telescopic Freight Circular issued by the Ministry of Railways, will provide significant freight savings and support the target. Additionally, the Rail Sagar Corridor, aimed at enhancing port connectivity, will play a pivotal role in achieving these objectives.
The Ministry of Railways will be responsible for ensuring adequate rake supply and strengthening the rail infrastructure connecting mines to ports. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) will focus on optimizing shipping and port handling charges, and developing dedicated coal berths to streamline the RSR transportation process.
Commitment to Inter-Agency Collaboration
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to advancing multimodal coal logistics by fostering collaboration between ministries, state governments, and the private sector. By investing in infrastructure and providing policy support, the government aims to unlock the full potential of the RSR model, contributing to India’s energy security and sustainable growth.
Through these coordinated efforts, the RSR transportation model is poised to play a significant role in the nation’s coal logistics, improving both efficiency and sustainability in line with India’s long-term development goals.
