The Indian railway ministry is planning to hike the transport costs for bulk commodities, including cement, iron ore, coal and steel, following a revival in the economy. The Railways had not hiked rates last year to provide relief to the slowdown hit Indian industry.

An announcement to this effect is expected in the Railway Budget 2010-11 , a railway ministry official said. Though the Railways is yet to decide on the exact quantum of hike, another official said that the increase could be as high as 10% for iron ore and steel. Coal and cement could attract a lower 5% increase.

The move could increase the transport costs of these commodities by about Rs 100 to Rs 200 for every tonne moved.
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