The Container Corporation of India Ltd (CONCOR) has initiated the evacuation of direct port delivery (DPD) containers from Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPT) by rail. This move is designed to alleviate congestion at terminal gates, promote a sustainable alternative to road transport, and reduce emissions. Official reports highlight that the DPD scheme facilitates the direct delivery of import containers to pre-approved clients at the port. This bypasses the need for containers to wait at container freight stations (CFS) outside the port for clearance, thereby cutting down on cargo dwell time and lowering costs for shippers.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to streamline the logistics chain and enhance operational efficiency at one of India’s busiest ports. By shifting container transportation from road to rail, CONCOR aims to mitigate traffic congestion and minimise the environmental impact associated with heavy-duty road transport.
On May 11 and 12, CONCOR, in collaboration with Gateway Terminals India (GTI) and PSA BDP, dispatched two rail rakes. These rakes carried cargo from Sabic Innovative Plastics India from GTI’s rail siding at Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Nhava Sheva to the Inland Container Depot (ICD) in Varnama, Vadodara. The final destination for the cargo was SABIC, a notable chemical company.
The introduction of rail transport for DPD containers represents a significant operational shift for CONCOR and the port. It demonstrates a commitment to enhancing logistical efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and providing cost-effective solutions for shippers. The successful dispatch of these initial rakes marks the beginning of what could become a regular operation, setting a precedent for other ports and logistics companies to follow.
This initiative aligns with India’s broader goals of improving infrastructure, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering sustainable development in the logistics sector. By leveraging rail networks, which are generally more efficient and environmentally friendly than road transport, CONCOR is taking a proactive step towards modernising India’s supply chain mechanisms. This move not only benefits the immediate stakeholders but also contributes to the country’s environmental sustainability goals and economic growth by ensuring a more reliable and efficient logistics infrastructure.
