Image credit: WAM/ For illustrative purposes
DP World, Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), and the mobility technology company Nevomo have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to investigate the implementation of magnetic rail systems for autonomous cargo handling in Indian ports, marking a significant milestone in the country’s freight logistics sector.
This agreement sets the stage for a 750-meter trial of Nevomo’s MagRail technology at Deendayal Port, located in Kandla, Gujarat. Should the pilot succeed, it will be the first instance where self-propelling, electric-powered freight wagons are operated in a live port setting in India.
The partnership aims to increase the speed of cargo transport, lower carbon dioxide emissions, and reduce logistics expenses while enhancing operational efficiency and the connectivity between ports and inland regions. This initiative supports India’s National Logistics Policy and the PM Gati Shakti initiative, both of which focus on upgrading and integrating the nation’s transport and logistics framework.
“This partnership represents a strategic improvement in port infrastructure, boosting capacity and operational effectiveness to meet rising cargo needs,” remarked Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, chairman of the Deendayal Port Authority. “With DP World as a reliable partner, this initiative is poised for success.”
DP World aims to implement technologies that secure the future of terminals
The MagRail technology utilizes linear motor innovation and can be integrated into existing rail systems, facilitating autonomous operations without the requirement for significant civil infrastructure alterations. This system is expected to automate short-haul cargo transfers, thereby minimizing reliance on diesel vehicles within port operations.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of DP World, emphasized that this pilot project is in line with the company’s approach to embrace technologies that make terminals more resilient and enable efficient, sustainable cargo logistics.
“Testing solutions like MagRail fits within our objective to improve speed, efficiency, and sustainability in the logistics sector,” Sulayem stated.
Rizwan Soomar, CEO and MD for the Middle East, North Africa, and India Subcontinent at DP World, expressed that this trial signifies a long-term vision for revolutionizing freight transportation.
“Our commitment extends beyond singular projects — we are collaborating to expedite India’s goal of enhancing and integrating port-centric logistics systems,” he commented.
Przemek (Ben) Paczek, CEO of Nevomo, characterized the deal as a “crucial milestone in promoting sustainable logistics in India,” highlighting the potential to validate the effectiveness of the system in real-world applications.
Should the Deendayal pilot prove successful, it may serve as an example for implementing similar solutions across other Indian ports and inland terminals, furthering India’s goal of establishing greener, smarter, and more competitive supply chain networks.
Read: DP World to invest $2.5bn in 2025 for global logistics expansion