By THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM|
The Union Budget 2026 underscores the Government of India’s commitment to infrastructure-led growth with the announcement of the Dankuni–Surat Dedicated Freight Corridor (#DFC).

On 03.02.2026, Praveen Kumar, Managing Director, DFCCIL, chaired a high-level meeting to review end-to-end preparedness for the project. Key aspects discussed included financing strategy, contract methodology, DPR readiness (already in place), signalling and electrification systems, and adoption of advanced DFC-standard technologies. “ _like Double Stack Cntainers, longer loop length, 2 into 25 KV traction, 32.5 T axle loads, CTC, KAWACH enabled, in line turnout sleepers, high speed canted turn outs, future ready yards for quick integration of GatiShakti cargo terminals, higher Schedule of Dimensions etc. So as to expedite the project very high focus on Land Acquisition alongwith statutory environmental clearances would be accorded.”_

The meeting also emphasised integration with PM Gati Shakti, covering Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals, Multi-Modal Logistics Parks (MMLPs), and identification of business capture areas to maximise freight potential.

Drawing on DFCCIL’s proven experience on the Eastern and Western DFCs—where ~4% of the rail network carries ~13% of India’s GTKM with 440+ trains daily—DFCCIL is institutionally and technically prepared to take forward the Dankuni–Surat DFC.

#DFCCIL stands ready to deliver India’s next strategic freight corridor and enable logistics-led growth.