CRF - Cargo Related Facilities
Source: GCT CRF Master Circular 2026 February
1️⃣ Full Form of CRF
CRF – Cargo Related Facilities
2️⃣ Definition
A Cargo Related Facility (CRF) is a facility developed on Railway land (or spare Railway land) to support, promote, and enhance rail-based cargo movement.
It is created by a private developer at their own cost and risk to facilitate freight loading, unloading, storage, or other cargo-related services connected to Indian Railways.
3️⃣ Purpose of CRF
The policy aims to:
Promote rail-based logistics
Reduce overall logistics cost
Increase freight share of Indian Railways
Utilize spare Railway land effectively
Create modern cargo handling infrastructure
4️⃣ Key Features of CRF
🔹 Developed on identified spare Railway land
🔹 Built, financed, and operated by a private developer
🔹 Developer bears cost and commercial risk
🔹 Helps in efficient loading/unloading and cargo movement
🔹 Supports the overall ecosystem of Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs)
5️⃣ Who Develops CRF?
A Cargo Related Facilities Developer is selected through a transparent competitive bidding process.
The developer:
Finances the project
Constructs the facility
Operates and maintains it
Complies with statutory requirements
Pays Guaranteed Railway Freight (GRF), if applicable
6️⃣ Difference Between GCT and CRF (Very Simple)
GCT (Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal) → Full-fledged cargo terminal with rail connectivity
CRF (Cargo Related Facility) → Supporting cargo infrastructure developed on Railway land to enhance freight movement
CRF may not always be a complete terminal like GCT but supports rail logistics operations.
7️⃣ Why CRF is Important for Indian Railways?
🚆 Better utilization of Railway land
🚆 Increased private participation
🚆 Reduced burden on Railway capital
🚆 Faster development of freight infrastructure
🚆 Supports PM Gati Shakti initiative
