Latest news with #freightlogistics
Gulf Business
a day ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
DP World to pilot autonomous magnetic rail freight at Indian port
Image courtesy: WAM/ For illustrative purposes DP World, the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), and mobility tech firm Nevomo have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore the deployment of magnetic rail technology for autonomous cargo movement within Indian ports — a national first that could reshape India's freight logistics. The MoU paves the way for a 750-metre pilot of Nevomo's MagRail system at Deendayal Port in Kandla, Gujarat. If successful, the trial will mark the first time MagRail's self-propelled, electric-powered freight wagons are tested in a live port environment in India. The collaboration is intended to enhance cargo movement speed, reduce CO₂ emissions, and cut logistics costs, while improving yard efficiency and port-hinterland connectivity. The initiative aligns with India's National Logistics Policy and PM Gati Shakti program, which aim to modernise and integrate the country's transport and logistics ecosystem. 'This collaboration is a strategic advancement in port infrastructure, enhancing capacity and operational efficiency to support growing cargo demands,' said Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, chairman of the Deendayal Port Authority. ' DP World's strategy is to adopt technologies that 'future-proof terminals' The MagRail system uses linear motor technology and can be installed on existing tracks, allowing autonomous operation without extensive civil infrastructure upgrades. The system promises to automate short-haul cargo transfers, reducing the need for diesel vehicles in yard operations. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of DP World, said the pilot aligns with the company's strategy to adopt technologies that 'future-proof terminals' and enable 'faster, more sustainable cargo flows.' 'Piloting solutions like MagRail aligns with our focus on enhancing speed, efficiency, and sustainability in logistics,' Sulayem said. Rizwan Soomar, CEO and MD for the Middle East, North Africa and India Subcontinent at DP World, said the pilot represents a long-term vision for transforming freight transport. 'Our commitment goes beyond individual projects — we are partnering to accelerate India's ambition to expand and integrate port-led logistics ecosystems,' he said. Przemek (Ben) Paczek, CEO of Nevomo, described the agreement as a 'significant step towards advancing sustainable logistics in India,' noting the opportunity to validate the system's real-world potential at scale. If successful, the Deendayal pilot could serve as a model for similar applications across Indian ports and inland terminals, supporting India's push for greener, smarter, and more competitive supply chains. Read:
Zawya
11-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Operation Vulindlela Progress Report shows momentum on economic reform
The Presidency and National Treasury have today, 11 July 2025, released a quarterly progress report for Q1 2025/26 on the implementation of economic reform through Operation Vulindlela. This report is the first to be released since the launch of Phase II of Operation Vulindlela this year. Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of The Presidency and National Treasury, which aims to achieve more rapid and inclusive economic growth through a programme of far-reaching economic reform. Phase I of Operation Vulindlela focused on unlocking progress in five priority areas: electricity, freight logistics, water, telecommunications, and the visa system. These reforms were selected for their high potential to catalyse investment, enhance economic competitiveness, and create jobs. Phase II represents a second wave of structural reform aimed at unlocking more rapid, inclusive, and sustained economic growth. While continuing to drive implementation of reforms initiated during Phase I, the second phase introduces new focus areas that respond to evolving challenges in the economy. The report released today demonstrates sustained progress in the economic reform agenda, which serves as a counter to strong economic headwinds. Key milestones during the past quarter include the publication of a Ministerial Determination and associated regulations to enable the first round of Independent Transmission Projects, as well as a Request for Information for major private sector participation (PSP) projects in the freight logistics sector. Progress has also been made in the new areas of reform included in Phase II, with a comprehensive review of the White Paper on Local Government to reform the local government system and the introduction of a performance-based financing mechanism to support the reform of municipal water and electricity services. The Digital Transformation Roadmap has been approved by Cabinet and is in implementation, with the development of a digital identity system and other core elements of the roadmap already advanced. Further details on progress in each of the reform areas is available in the full report, which can be accessed here. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
