Gov't revs up search for NSCR operator

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is stepping up efforts in finding a concessionaire for the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), this time pitching the project to over 20 investors in a forum.

- By ELIJAH FELICE ROSALES

The DOTr is expanding roadshows here and abroad to market the P229-billion concession to operate and maintain what would become the country's largest railway.

Transportation Undersecretary Timothy John Batan led the recent leg of the market sounding for NSCR at the headquarters of the Asian Development Bank.

More than 20 domestic and foreign companies attended the event.

Batan said the DOTr is working on finding the best operator for the NSCR given how important the project would be for commuters.

The NSCR, once completed, is expected to trim travel time between the Clark International Airport and Calamba, Laguna to below three hours.