The preliminary process of citizen participation has begun for the Urban Master Plan (UMP) of the Intermodal Logistics Terminal of the Port of Barcelona.
Citizen participation is a preliminary step before drafting, process and final approval of the plan which envisions an infrastructure complex that boasts a ferroutage terminal, a reception and shipment terminal and a loading and unloading terminal.
Damià Calvet, President of the Port of Barcelona, said that “the economy of Catalonia needs a more efficient, competitive and sustainable Port of Barcelona."
“With this urban planning instrument, agreed by the four competent administrations, we are laying the groundwork for the railway and road accesses and the railway node.”
Once the contributions of citizens and local bodies have been incorporated and the environmental side of the project process, initial approval of the UMP and the start of public consultation are expected.
The amendments collected from citizens, town councils and associations during this public consultation will help to finish shaping the document for which final approval will foreseeably l be given by the Territorial Commission of Catalonia in the first quarter of 2023.
Combined with existing infrastructure at the port – the BEST rail terminal and Terminal C – the new infrastructure will form a very powerful six-terminal rail node to serve the Port of Barcelona and the surrounding area.
It will serve not just maritime-land and land-maritime traffic, but also land-land traffic which will help to improve sustainability and efficiency.
The Port of Barcelona’s intermodal strategy, which fosters rail as an efficient and competitive transport, has meant 2.8m fewer truck journeys in the last 10 years.
In 2020, rail traffic in the port area kept 175,000 trucks off the road, the equivalent of 700 fewer trucks on the road every day.
This drop in road traffic meant 42,700 fewer tonnes of CO2 were released and 14m fewer litres of fuel were burned.
The node occupies 68 ha of land and the aggregate of this infrastructure, with the new land accesses to the Port of Barcelona and the 10 railway sections of the Barcelona axis, will increase the number of containers entering and/or leaving the port by train.
In 2020, rail traffic in the Port of Barcelona was 269,304 TEU with a 15% rail share of containers and a 42% rail share of vehicles.
The Intermodal Logistics Terminal is expected to make it possible to shift about 400,000 containers and 46,000 semi-trailers from road to rail every year.
Janet Sanz, Deputy Mayor for Ecology, Urban Planning, Infrastructure, and Mobility, Barcelona City Council said, “This UMP is an example of a new way to manage the port-city that incorporates new green and sustainable industry, sustainable public infrastructure and co-leadership between large institutions like the Port of Barcelona, city councils and the regional government in the service of the public interest.”
The UMP will include regulation and urban planning of the spaces affected by new infrastructure, envisioning the creation of 20.8 ha of new green public spaces and the Green Corridor Agricultural Park of the Llobregat-Montiuic Park.
It also envisions using green corridors as buffers to integrate the new infrastructure into the landscape and will guarantee the territorial integration of the new infrastructure and ensure the infrastructure is used for logistics and transport.
Therefore the Intermodal Logistics Terminal of the Port of Barcelona will not impact valuable spaces nearby.
Calvet added, “The port’s commitment is substantial. We are talking about the Port of Barcelona putting £15m (US$17m) toward direct investment outside the port area to create the urban planning conditions envisioned under the UMP.”
“This move guarantees the environmental and social function of our public spaces.”
El Prat Mayor Lluís Mijoler said that the UMP’s progress was the result of “all the administrations involved opting for dialogue and negotiation.” He added that “for the El Prat City Council, giving value and getting the location of our green spaces right was very important” and asserted that the proposed solution will “restore territorial balance to the Delta, reconnect the city with the Agricultural Park and natural spaces, and replace what had been a wall south of El Prat with a green and sustainable cushion.”
Agustí Serra, General Director of Territorial and Urban Planning, Government of Catalonia stressed that “this will be an urban planning tool that will make it possible to implement the Port of Barcelona’s intermodal terminal, and will integrate infrastructures and spaces dedicated to the productive economy into the territory with across-the-board consensus from administrations.”
The Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI) held its 6th EC Meeting for the term 2021-23 on May 27 and 28 in Bengaluru. The meeting was attended by the Office Bearers and 28 Member Association representative of FFFAI from across the country, there were many issues discussed and updates provided concerning customs, CBLR, EDI, Service Tax/GST, logistics, air cargo, sea cargo, skill development,importance of social media which FFFAI has expanded recently, technology developments, etc. The special focus of the 6th EC meeting was the updates on forthcoming 24th Biennial Convention of FFFAI to be held from August 12 to 14, 2022 in Chennai with the theme LOGISTICS RESHAPE, EMBRACE AND SURGE IN THE DIGITAL ERA. At this EC meeting, FFFAI also implemented Digital Learning platform for members and next generation for e-learning. It has been decided that FFFAI would initiate FIATA eFBL here in India to benefit the trade, which empowers customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers. In addition, updates on the recently held FIATA HQ Meet was also provided by the concerned members of FFFAI. FFFAI members present at this EC meeting stressed upon enhancing productivity on ICEGATE for trade facilitation and Ease of Doing Business. The FFFAI members also urged for creating a dedicated portal for LSP integration. As regard to skill development initiatives, IIFF’s (training arm of FFFAI) past and forthcoming training programmes (both online and classroom/physical) for the entire logistics industry were presented at the EC meeting. In addition, FFFAI’s various initiatives on capacity building through technology/IT also discussed withadequate importance. Recent activities of FFFAI Women’s Wing including organising interactive meetings with Government of India officials and industry experts were highlighted at this meeting which drew huge appreciation from the members. The members committed to expand the activities of the Women’s Wing in all the 28 member association locations to empower/encourage the women logistics practitioners. At this EC meeting FFFAI has signed an MoU with the National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE) with an objective of skilling the aspiring candidates looking for opportunities in the logistics sector. Notably, a special session was organised at this 6th EC Meeting where N Sivasailam, former Special Secretary (Logistics), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India was present to address the FFFAI members and highlight the recent initiatives of the government in strengthening the logistics infrastructure, thereby leading in increase of international trade through multimodal connectivity and faster cargo clearance. He projected the ambitious growth potential of the logistics industry in India with a strong collaboration between government and industry people. Also speaking on the occasion was Bani Bhattacharya, IRS, who interacted with members of FFFAI on various initiatives of CBIC for the trade facilitation without human intervention. FFFAI Chairman Shankar Shinde thanked all the 28 associations for their support and appreciated the contribution of CBIC/DG systems trade facilitation measures. FFFAI Member Associations are: 1. Ahmedabad Custom Brokers' Association2. Aurangabad Customs House Agents Association3. Association of Custom House Agents Thiruvanthapuram4. Bangalore Custom House Agents Association5. Brihnamumbai Custom Brokers Association6. Calcutta Customs House Agents Association7. Chennai Customs House Agents Association8. Cochin Customs Brokers' Association9. Coimbatore Customs House and Steamer Agents Association10. Custom Brokers Association Hyderabad11. Delhi Customs Brokers Association12. Goa Custom Brokers Association13.Indore Customs House Agents Association14. The Kakinada Customs Brokers Association15. Kandla Custom Brokers Association16. Kanpur Customs Brokers Association17. Ludhiana Customs House Agents Association18. Mangalore Customs House Agents Association19. Mundra Customs Brokers Association20. Nagpur Customs House Agents Association21. Nashik Customs House Agents Association22. Nadia Custom Brokers Association23. Pipavav Custom Brokers Association24. Pune Customs House Agents Association25. Rajasthan Customs House Agents Association26.Tuticorin Custom Brokers Association27.Visakhapatnam Cusotms Brokers' Association28.West Bengal Custom House Agents Society FFFAI welcomes Women in Logistics/Youth in Logistics to participate on FFFAI forums and also invites membership application form logistics service providers in industry as this is a big national and international forum to network.
Ecom Express Limited, India’s sole pure-play B2C e-commerce logistics provider as of the Financial Year 2024, has introduced a new brand identity, underscoring its commitment to customer-centricity. This rebranding reflects a focus on addressing specific customer needs, prioritising customer-facing metrics, and integrating innovative technology across its nationwide express logistics network. The goal is to enhance speed, agility, and network reach, ensuring a customer-focused approach. The rebranding includes a dynamic logo and a refreshed visual identity, symbolising Ecom Express’s pursuit of excellence. The new logo features a forward-moving arrow within a square, representing the company’s dedication to delivery. The letter "E" in the logo stands for Expression, Innovation, and Progress, while the bold magenta colour signifies bravery, self-expression, and strength. This vibrant magenta reintroduction reflects Ecom Express's renewed commitment to customers, partners, and team members, as the company aims to simplify and democratise logistics for all. Ajay Chitkara, CEO and MD of Ecom Express, elaborated on the transformation, stating, “Our refreshed brand identity reaffirms our customer-first approach as we continue to integrate technology and innovation to provide reliable, high-speed services with the widest network reach. This transformation also underscores our commitment to our employees and delivery partners, who are essential to our business.” The new logo embodies Ecom Express’s dedication to its core values, focusing on customer welfare and fostering a diverse, inclusive environment. This rebranding signifies a promise to redefine logistics through advanced technology, making life easier for all types of customers.
Delmos Aviation has transported the second lot of 300 units of oxygen concentrators from Russia to New Delhi for the Rajasthan state government. The consignment was airborne on an Aeroflot A333 aircraft (SU 232) and reached at 10:10 AM in New Delhi. The shipments were shipped by road and sent back to Swasthya Bhawan, Jaipur, Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation (RMSCL). RMSCL obtained oxygen concentrators from Russian companies together with Delmos Aviation. Delmos Aviation is procuring, transporting and supplying COVID-relied materials to the Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation with the mandate signed with the Rajasthan Government. There will shortly be two consignments with the remaining 800 oxygen concentrators. "We are ready to assist governments in the provision and delivery of any type of essential medical supplies, oxygen concentration and equipment as quickly as possible," said Dr Naveen Rao, Director, Delmos Aviation. "At this juncture, time-based deliveries are paramount. We can handle the airlift and deliver the shipment to the last point." In four lots, 100, 300, 450 and 400 units, a total of 1250 oxygen concentrations are ordered and continue to reach New Delhi in batches of shipments. On 14 and 16 May 2021, the remaining lots will arrive. Oxygen concentrators of Single flowmeter (0.5-10LPM Adjustable) and double flowmeter (0-5LPM Adjustable) are included in the delivery. The models are JAY-10A & LFY-I-5A. "The government of Rajasthan is working hard in this raging second wave of the pandemic to provide basic medical equipment to head Minister Ashok Gehlot and Minister of Health, Raghu Sharma. The government plans to import 1250 oxygen concentrators from Moscow, Russia, in partnership with Delmos Aviation, as part of its efforts to enhance medical oxygen in the state," said a spokesperson.
A significant milestone has been achieved in the Indo-Bangla railway project with the inauguration of the inaugural freight train connecting Bangladesh's Gangasagar to Tripura's Nischintanpur. This momentous event marks a significant step forward in strengthening the rail connectivity between the two neighboring countries. The new railway connection is set to enhance trade and commerce between India and Bangladesh, providing a more efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation for goods. It will not only boost bilateral trade but also promote economic development in the region by opening up new opportunities for businesses and industries. The Indo-Bangla railway project is part of a broader effort to improve connectivity and foster closer ties between the two nations. It is expected to play a vital role in facilitating the movement of goods and passengers, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of both countries.
Omnichannel lifestyle brand The Souled Store has partnered with third-party logistics firm Emiza to manage its primary warehouse operations in Mumbai. The collaboration positions Emiza’s Mumbai warehouse as a central hub, managing orders from The Souled Store’s website, marketplaces, and offline stores across India. “This partnership marks a significant milestone in The Souled Store’s journey, enabling the brand to streamline operations and refocus on growth by partnering with Emiza as a trusted 3PL provider,” the company said. The strategic collaboration goes beyond standard logistics, providing services such as inventory management and order processing. The Souled Store has reduced its order processing time from 24 hours to just 12 hours, significantly enhancing customer satisfaction, a key factor in the competitive D2C market. Ajay Rao, Founder of Emiza, highlighted the value of the partnership, stating, “Their trust in our services underscores the value we bring, not just in warehousing and fulfilment, but in enhancing overall customer satisfaction. As India’s fashion e-commerce market is projected to reach USD 112 billion by 2030, our role is to provide the infrastructure and fulfilment expertise necessary for brands to thrive.” Aditya Sharma, Co-founder of The Souled Store, noted the impact of the partnership: “Emiza stepped in, providing exceptional warehousing and fulfilment services aligned with our commitment to delivering quality products. Their focus on optimising our fulfilment process has allowed us to cut order processing time by half, ensuring that our customers receive their orders faster.” With 27 fulfilment centres across 14 cities, Emiza is well-positioned to support The Souled Store’s expansion beyond metro cities, tapping into the growing consumer base in Bharat, the company added.
In a momentous event today, PM Modi inaugurated a 77-kilometer-long section of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC), marking a significant milestone in India's ambitious infrastructure development efforts. The inauguration ceremony, held in the presence of key dignitaries and government officials, showcased the country's commitment to enhancing its transportation network. The Western Dedicated Freight Corridor is a game-changing project that aims to revolutionize India's freight transportation sector. The newly inaugurated 77-kilometer section connects key industrial regions, providing a dedicated pathway for the efficient movement of goods. With this achievement, India takes a major step towards reducing logistics costs, boosting manufacturing, and improving the overall economy. PM Modi, while addressing the audience, emphasized the importance of this project in promoting economic growth, generating employment, and reducing the carbon footprint. He noted, "The Western Dedicated Freight Corridor is a testament to India's vision for a modern and efficient transportation system. It will not only enhance our connectivity but also make us a global logistics hub." The event was attended by several Union Ministers and top officials from the Ministry of Railways, underscoring the government's commitment to accelerating infrastructure development in the country.
TVS Supply Chain Solutions (TVS SCS) announced the expansion of its Centre of Excellence (CoE) by inaugurating a new technology centre in Madurai. The CoE, a core unit of the company's global operations, strengthens TVS SCS' leadership as a technology-led global supply chain player and acts as an important pillar of the company's growth strategy. The company looks to tap into the rich talent available in the region to build on its competitive advantage and aims to double its employees' strength in two years from its current level of 300. The new wing will have a total work area of around 13,000 sq ft and would provide advanced services such as technology product development and deployment; analytics and business intelligence support; and business process outsourcing for its global operations. Thangam Thennarasu, Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce, Government of Tamil Nadu; P Moorthy, Minister for Commercial Taxes, Registration and Stamp Law, Government of Tamil Nadu; and Dr S Aneesh Sekhar, IAS, District Collector, Madurai inaugurated the new centre. Commenting on the CoE's expansion, R Dinesh, Executive Vice Chairman, TVS SCS said, "I am happy that we are expanding our operations in Madurai through our Centre of Excellence, which provides specialised services, using technology and data analytics, to our global operations. Being a home-grown organisation, we always wanted to provide opportunities to the local talent here and that's when we started our Centre of Excellence in 2017 with 5 employees. Going forward, CoE will be the hub for all technology developments for our operations globally besides being the back-office capital for TVS SCS." Ravi Viswanathan, Managing Director, TVS SCS said, "The expansion of the CoE facility is a testimony to the value it drives to our operations both in India and globally and helps in being an agile and responsive partner to our customers globally. The CoE today boasts of deep domain depth combined with the latest technology capabilities serving our global customer clientele. Our expansion in Madurai is based on the underlying belief in the rich talent available in the region and be a key driver in realising our vision of being a global leader in the Supply Chain Solutions space." The new technology facility is an ISO 27001:2013 certified and has implemented required information systems, management systems, policies, and procedures to maintain industry standard best practices and applicable controls. TVS SCS' Centre of Excellence in Madurai, established in 2017, has now completed five years and employs over 300 strong workforce of supply chain experts and technology professionals.
Dubai-based DP World and CDPQ, the Canadian global investment group, announced a joint investment of US$5 billion in three flagship UAE assets controlled by DP World. "CDPQ will invest US$2.5 billion in Jebel Ali Port, Jebel Ali Free Zone, and National Industries Park through a new joint venture in which it will hold a stake of approximately 22 per cent (through a sub-concession of up to 35 years) with the remainder of the transaction being financed by debt," according to an official statement from DP World. "Other long-term investors will have the opportunity to acquire an additional stake of up to US$3 billion. The transaction implies a total enterprise value of approximately US$23 billion for the three assets." "The Jebel Ali Port, Free Zone and National Industries Park together form a world-class integrated ecosystem for the supply and logistics chains of over 8,700 companies from around the world, serving more than 3.5 billion people globally. The three assets generated pro-forma 2021 revenue of US$1.9 billion, the statement said. The three assets will remain fully consolidated businesses within the DP World Group, and day-to-day operations, customers, service providers and employees will not be affected," it added. According to the DP Word statement, "Tranche 1 (US$5 billion) of the transaction is expected to close in the second or third quarter of 2022, and tranche 2 (up to US$3 billion) is expected to close during the fourth quarter of 2022." "We are delighted to announce the broadening of our partnership with CDPQ," says Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO, DP World. "The DP World and CDPQ co-investments have been very successful, thanks to our complementary expertise and long-term investment horizon. We believe this new partnership will enhance our assets and allow us to capture the significant growth potential of the wider region. The transaction also achieves our objective of reducing DP World's net leverage to below 4x Net Debt to EBITDA and this has been achieved despite the challenges of the pandemic and recent global economic conditions." Emmanuel Jaclot, Executive Vice-President and Head of Infrastructure, CDPQ adds, "This investment in Jebel Ali is another great illustration of the partnership between CDPQ and DP World, which now spans four continents and eighteen terminals. Today, we are pleased to deepen our long-standing relationship with a world-class logistics and supply chain operator by investing in this strategic trade infrastructure, one that will play a pivotal role in the evolution of the global economy." "DP World is well positioned to provide innovative solutions to their customers worldwide, and we welcome this opportunity to invest in a best-in-class group of infrastructure that provides CDPQ with exposure to new fast-growing markets and trade routes in Africa and South Asia."
