By Eva Richardson | The Logistic News | March 25, 2025
In a bold move set to redefine India’s multimodal logistics ecosystem, DP World and Reliance Industries have launched an integrated rail-based cargo movement solution, promising to accelerate inland freight, ease port congestion, and reshape how manufacturers move goods across the subcontinent.
Announced this month, the initiative connects Reliance’s sprawling manufacturing base in Jamnagar, Gujarat, to DP World’s container terminal in Mundra Port, creating a fast, efficient, and technology-driven link between production hubs and export gateways.
From Road to Rail: A Logistics Pivot
India’s overdependence on road transport has long strained its supply chains—marked by delays, higher carbon emissions, and rising fuel costs. This new partnership signals a strategic pivot to rail, offering not only faster delivery but also greater predictability and sustainability.
The service will operate on dedicated rail corridors, allowing loaded containers to move seamlessly from factory to port without transloading, reducing dwell times and operational bottlenecks.
DP World has highlighted that the model supports ‘Factory to Port’ connectivity, a growing priority in India’s national logistics strategy.
A Strategic Alliance with Global Implications
DP World, a global port and logistics powerhouse, and Reliance Industries, India’s largest conglomerate, represent a formidable alliance. Their joint effort is more than a single route—it is a proof of concept for end-to-end industrial supply chain integration.
The project aligns with India’s push to become a manufacturing and export powerhouse under the “Make in India” initiative, while supporting the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which aims to build seamless multimodal connectivity.
By launching this service, the two giants are sending a clear signal to the market: India’s logistics infrastructure is ready to modernise at scale—through private sector leadership.
Tech-Enabled, Time-Sensitive
This new model is powered by advanced logistics tech. DP World has confirmed the integration of real-time tracking, paperless documentation, cargo visibility platforms, and automated scheduling tools.
These features will allow both Reliance and its downstream partners to monitor shipment status, optimise inventory levels, and reduce detention and demurrage costs—benefits that could ripple across multiple verticals including chemicals, energy, and consumer goods.
The initial phase will focus on Reliance’s Jamnagar refinery complex, one of the largest in the world. However, DP World’s executives have suggested the concept could be replicated across India’s major industrial zones.
Sustainability Embedded in Design
The shift from long-haul trucking to rail provides significant environmental upside. Rail freight emits far less CO₂ per ton-kilometre than road, making it a critical tool in reducing the carbon footprint of supply chains.
For large exporters like Reliance, with global ESG reporting obligations, this partnership reflects a direct step toward greener, more compliant trade operations.
DP World has already committed to reducing emissions across its global network, and this partnership demonstrates how supply chain decarbonisation can begin at the source.
Looking Ahead: A New Template for India
This rail logistics model is likely to inspire similar public-private initiatives across India, particularly in sectors like textiles, automotive, pharma, and agribusiness. The approach delivers what the Indian logistics sector has long needed: speed, transparency, reliability—and scale.
As India continues to position itself as a global manufacturing hub, integrated logistics solutions will be a key differentiator—and this alliance sets a powerful precedent.
Final Thought
DP World and Reliance have done more than launch a new freight service. They’ve redefined what logistics collaboration in India can look like—where connectivity, sustainability, and digital intelligence converge to unlock competitive advantage.
For a country aiming to lead the global supply chain conversation, this is not just progress. It’s a strategic inflection point.
Eva Richardson
Senior Correspondent, The Logistic News
