FDI in railways to cover only select areas: Railway Board

NEW DELHI: With the government looking to allow FDI in railways, the public transporter made it clear that any such investment would be limited in scope and only cover aspects like laying of tracks for last mile connectivity.

"FDI would be allowed in the laying of tracks to provide connectivity to ports and other industrial units," Railway Board Chairman Arunendra Kumar said.

However, he made it clear that FDI would not be allowed in train operations, safety, etc.

Currently, PPP is allowed in port connectivity. Besides, railways is busy finalising bids for two locomotive factories -- at Madhepura and Marhora -- which are expected to attract considerable funding from foreign players.

According to ministry officials, the FDI plan has already been submitted to DIPP, which is expected to ready a Cabinet proposal in that regard early next year.