India Flags Off First-Ever Stainless Steel Salt Container Train From Gujarat's Shivalakha as State Gets 5 Cargo Terminals

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off India's inaugural salt container train from Shivalakha to Mithapur on 15 September 2026 via video conferencing, simultaneously dedicating five Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs) across Gujarat to boost freight logistics and regional passenger connectivity.

The dedicated salt train relies on specially designed stainless steel containers built to resolve traditional wagon vulnerabilities, such as uneven weight distribution and moisture absorption during transit. Featuring top-loading mechanisms and side-tilting discharge capabilities, these new containers aim to lower overall logistics overheads while safeguarding cargo.

Gujarat Expands Rail Cargo Infrastructure

To scale rail-based freight operations, five Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals were launched across key industrial corridors:

• Shivalakha Terminal (Samakhiali–Palanpur): Built by KMT Engineering over 150 acres with an investment of ₹200 crore, this unit incorporates wagon manufacturing operations projected to generate between 2,000 and 2,500 jobs.
• Bhimasar Terminal (Gandhidham–Samakhiali): Constructed by Arya Freight Terminal across 52 acres at a cost of ₹75 crore, handling up to 60 inward and 60 outward rakes monthly while creating 1,000 jobs.
• Devaliya Terminal (Samakhiali–Dhrangadhra): Developed by Western Carriers across 41 acres at ₹65 crore, creating 1,000 employment opportunities.
• Chandisar Terminal (Palanpur–Samakhiali): Developed by Emirate Terminals over 23 acres for ₹75 crore, operating with a monthly capacity of 10 inward and outward rakes.
• Linch Terminal: Located near Mehsana, providing industrial units direct access to accelerated rail freight movements.

Operational Upgrades and Track Expansion in Kutch

Railway infrastructure received a structural boost in Kutch, where projects worth ₹5,600 crore are currently underway.

State Minister Trikambhai Chhanga, MP Vinod-bhai Chavda, and MLA Maltiben Maheshwari attended the inauguration of the newly operational Gopalpur railway station. The station eliminates mandatory engine reversal procedures at Gandhidham for trains running between Ahmedabad and Bhuj, saving significant operational time.

Additionally, an official stoppage for Train 22829/22830 Bhuj–Shalimar Express was introduced at Anjar station to serve daily commuters, traders, and students.

On track infrastructure, quadrupling work on the Samakhiali–Bhachau line and the Gandhidham–Adipur section stands complete. Work progresses rapidly on third and fourth lines between Bhachau and Gandhidham, alongside track doubling between Adipur and Bhuj. Approvals have also been secured for new lines linking Naliya to Jakhau Port and expanding from Naliya through Vayor, Narayan Sarovar, and Lakhpat up to Desalpar.