On 1 March 2011, the Ministry of Railways through Addendum No. 14 to Rates Circular No. 36 of 2009 increased the Distance based Charges on freight of iron ore that is to be exported and used in the production of iron and steel.

The Distance based Charge applicable on such iron ore transportation was earlier set at a rate ranging from "Rs. 1500 per tonne" to "125% of base freight rate plus Rs. 1500 per tonne" depending on the distance of transport. This additional charge has been increased to a rate ranging from "Rs. 1600 per tonne" to "125% of base freight rate plus Rs. 1600 per tonne".
The new rates are applicable from 3 March 2012.
 
The charges were later reduced in March 2012 (see related measure).