Kutch: Indian Railways will now transport industrial salt using stainless steel containers, following a successful trial run conducted at Gandhidham in the Western Railway zone. The development marks a significant advancement in freight handling.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the achievement in a post on X, noting that the trial on the Bhimasar–Gandhidham section demonstrated a container design offering strong corrosion resistance, extended service life, reduced need for manual cleaning, minimal wastage, and improved turnaround efficiency.

Ahmedabad Divisional Railway Manager Ved Prakash described the initiative as a step towards cleaner, corrosion-free bulk logistics. During the trial, 33 tonnes of salt were loaded within 15 minutes and unloaded in just five minutes at a weighbridge near the Kandla Special Economic Zone (KASEZ).

The 20-foot stainless steel container, measuring 8.5 feet in both height and width, has been specially designed to transport salt and other corrosive materials. It features two top openings that enable mechanised loading through specialised equipment.

Railway officials added that a full rake of 48 wagons can transport approximately 3,300 tonnes of salt while reducing contamination, eliminating the need for tarpaulin lining, minimising cleaning requirements, and improving overall environmental performance. DeshGujarat