The first trial container rake successfully arrived at the Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP), also known as the Dry Port project, in Jalna on Monday. This event marks a historic milestone for the industrial and logistics sectors in the Marathwada region.
District Collector Welcomes Inaugural Rake
District collector Ashima Mittal, who welcomed the inaugural trial container rake, stated that the development signifies the formal commencement of rail-linked freight services in Jalna and the entire Marathwada region. She explained that the first inbound container rake, carrying sponge iron for a private company, arrived at the railway siding within the MMLP Jalna premises. The successful trial has opened new avenues for industries, facilitating integrated multi-modal freight transport that seamlessly coordinates rail, road, and port connectivity.
Coordinated Efforts Lauded
The Jalna district administration has praised the coordinated efforts undertaken by the Indian Railways, Customs, various state government agencies, and other relevant stakeholders for the successful implementation of the project. Their collaboration was crucial in achieving this milestone.
Details of the Dry Port Project
The MMLP at Jalna is hailed as the country’s first dry port, established through the National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), in collaboration with the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA). The project has been developed under a special purpose vehicle (SPV) named Maharashtra MMLP Private Limited (MMPL). The first phase of the Dry Port project has been commissioned across an area of approximately 64.5 acres.
The arrival of the first container rake is expected to significantly boost the logistics infrastructure in Marathwada, providing industries with efficient and cost-effective freight solutions. The dry port will enable seamless movement of goods between rail, road, and sea, reducing transit times and logistics costs for businesses in the region.
