Indian Railways Launches RailParcel Pilot to Revolutionize Parcel Logistics
In a significant move to modernize its cargo operations, Indian Railways has officially launched the RailParcel pilot initiative. This project aims to enhance parcel movement efficiency across seven major cities under the South Central Railway (SCR) zone, marking a pivotal step towards digital transformation in rail logistics.
Seven Cities Included in the Pilot Phase
The RailParcel pilot is currently operational in Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Guntur, Rajahmundry, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru, and Chennai. This strategic selection covers key urban centers in southern India, facilitating improved connectivity and streamlined parcel delivery services through the rail network.
Technology and Logistics Partners Driving the Initiative
The initiative is powered by AION-Tech Solutions through its specialized subsidiaries. ROQIT, a cloud-native SaaS platform, provides digital workflow management and real-time parcel tracking capabilities. Simultaneously, ETO Motors serves as the logistics partner, leveraging electric mobility solutions to manage first- and last-mile deliveries.
ROQIT's Role: The platform enables real-time tracking, digitalized booking, and operational workflows, while supporting interoperability across various stakeholders. This integration ensures that all parties involved in the parcel movement process can access consistent and up-to-date information.
ETO Motors' Contribution: On the ground, ETO Motors handles parcel transfers between railway terminals and delivery points. Currently deployed across three cities, its operations are meticulously aligned with rail schedules to guarantee seamless connectivity and timely movement.
Executive Insights on RailParcel's Impact
Bhanutej Mallangi, Chief Product Officer of ROQIT, emphasized the initiative's importance. "RailParcel represents an important step towards structured, digitally enabled parcel operations within the rail ecosystem. Through ROQIT, we are establishing a foundational technology layer that enhances operational visibility and standardizes workflows across touchpoints. Insights generated can support scalable, data-driven logistics operations across the rail network," he stated.
Anthony Daniel, Chief Business Officer of ETO Motors, highlighted the collaborative effort. "The RailParcel pilot demonstrates how structured first- and last-mile logistics can effectively complement large-scale rail transportation networks. Working with South Central Railway allows us to strengthen operational readiness in sustainable parcel movement," he explained.
Key Benefits and Future Implications
By integrating ROQIT's digital platform with ETO Motors' electric mobility-led logistics, RailParcel delivers a seamless, low-carbon, end-to-end solution. This pilot reflects Indian Railways' broader efforts to modernize operations, enhance multimodal connectivity, and lay the groundwork for scalable, efficient, and sustainable parcel handling.
The initiative not only improves service consistency and operational visibility but also sets a precedent for future expansions. As data-driven insights accumulate, RailParcel could potentially be scaled across other railway zones, transforming India's logistics landscape and reducing carbon emissions through electric vehicle integration.
