Infrastructure for Low-Carbon Transport in India: A Case Study of the Delhi-Mumbai Dedicated Freight Corridor - Policy Summary

This policy summary examines the Delhi–Mumbai Dedicated Freight Corridor as a major rail freight infrastructure initiative intended to address capacity constraints in India’s transport system while supporting low-carbon development. It presents a long-term assessment of carbon dioxide emissions during the operational phase over a 30-year period using business-as-usual and low-carbon scenarios. The analysis evaluates future freight demand, modal distribution, energy use and emissions, and finds that shifting freight from road to electrified rail could substantially reduce emissions, largely through modal shift, improved efficiency and cleaner electricity generation. The document also considers links with regional economic development and outlines policy measures to support implementation and complementary infrastructure.