DP World Expands Double-Stack Rail Connectivity from JNPA to NCR and Gujarat

Summary

DP World has launched two Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC)-enabled double-stack rail services connecting Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) with inland container depots across the National Capital Region (NCR) and Sachana in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The services are designed to increase rail freight capacity, improve port-to-hinterland connectivity and support more predictable cargo movement for exporters, importers and domestic supply chains.

Article

New rail services connect JNPA with inland container depots

DP World has introduced two double-stack rail services linking Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) with its inland container depot (ICD) network in northern and western India. Announced on 26 October 2026, the services use Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) infrastructure to expand rail capacity between the maritime gateway and key inland markets.

The first service, operational since September 2026, connects JNPA with DP World’s ICD network at Pali/Rewari, Jhattipur–Panipat and Modinagar in the National Capital Region (NCR). The second service connects JNPA with ICD Sachana in Ahmedabad, extending double-stack rail connectivity into Gujarat.

The services combine dedicated freight infrastructure with higher-capacity rail operations to facilitate cargo movement between the port and inland production and consumption centres.

DFC-enabled operations target efficient cargo movement

The new connections integrate port and inland terminal infrastructure, providing customers with additional rail-based transport options. DP World said the services are intended to support predictable cargo movement, improve transit efficiency and help businesses plan their supply chains.

Double-stack trains carry containers in two tiers, increasing the volume of cargo that can be transported in a single movement. Greater use of rail can also reduce dependence on road transportation, contributing to lower road freight demand and a more sustainable logistics network.

Hemant Kumar Ruia, Country Manager, Subcontinent (India), DP World, said, “Expanding double-stack rail connectivity through the Dedicated Freight Corridor is an important step towards making India’s logistics more efficient. As the economy grows, moving goods faster and more cost-effectively between ports and key markets will be critical. By connecting JNPA with major markets across NCR and Gujarat, we are helping businesses move cargo faster, reduce logistics costs and build stronger, more resilient supply chains.”

Expansion aligns with India’s multimodal logistics strategy

Adhendru Jain, Vice President – Rail & Inland Terminals – SCO, DP World, said, “India’s National Logistics Policy and PM GatiShakti are driving a more integrated, multimodal and efficient logistics ecosystem, with stronger connections between ports, rail networks and inland markets. Our expansion of DFC-enabled double-stack rail services is aligned with this vision, as we continue to build greater rail capacity and strengthen the link between maritime gateways and key consumption and production centres. By connecting JNPA with our ICD network across NCR and Gujarat, we are bringing together dedicated freight infrastructure, higher-capacity rail operations and our inland network to provide customers with more efficient and predictable cargo movement. This not only gives businesses greater choice in how they move cargo but also supports the broader shift towards a more cost-efficient, resilient and sustainable freight network in India.”

The services are expected to support industrial and commercial clusters across Gujarat and North India, including the automotive, engineering, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, chemical, textile and home-furnishing sectors.

By strengthening rail links between these industries and JNPA, the new connections provide exporters, importers and domestic supply chains with additional freight capacity and alternative transport options for moving containerised cargo.

FAQs

What new rail services has DP World launched?

DP World has launched two DFC-enabled double-stack rail services connecting JNPA with its ICD network in NCR and ICD Sachana in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

Which NCR locations are connected by the new services?

The NCR service connects JNPA with DP World’s ICD network at Pali/Rewari, Jhattipur–Panipat and Modinagar.

What is the purpose of double-stack rail operations?

Double-stack rail operations allow containers to be carried in two tiers, increasing freight capacity per train movement and providing an alternative to road transportation.

Which industries could benefit from the new rail connections?

Industries served include automotive, engineering, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, textiles and home furnishings.

How do the services support India’s logistics strategy?

The services strengthen connections between ports, dedicated freight rail infrastructure and inland markets, supporting the objectives of the National Logistics Policy and PM GatiShakti for integrated multimodal transportation.