Chennai, Aug 13:
The Chennai Port Authority (ChPA) has strengthened its rail-based EXIM connectivity with the commencement of container rail movement between ICD Sanathnagar, Hyderabad (CSTN) and Chennai Port (CITPL), creating a commercially attractive gateway option for Hyderabad and the adjoining hinterland.
The inaugural train, operated by M/s CONCOR in association with M/s OOCL, comprised a 40-wagon container rake with 14 FEUs and 18 TEUs, aggregating 46 TEUs.
ChPA Chairperson Sachin S. Kurve, who flagged off the unloading operations at Chennai Port along with Ms.Gayatri, Area Head South, CONCOR, highlighted the importance of stronger hinterland connectivity in enhancing Port competitiveness and facilitating trade.
The service launched on Wednesday marks an important step in Chennai Port’s strategy to deepen hinterland connectivity and facilitate seamless movement of EXIM cargo.
The Hyderabad–Chennai rail connectivity creates an opportunity for Far East-bound cargo to use Chennai as a commercially viable gateway. With first-and last-mile logistics costs broadly comparable to competing West Coast gateways, the Chennai route has the potential to reduce overall transit time by up to seven days, depending on cargo and service routing, official sources said.
This combination of competitive inland logistics and faster market access gives exporters and importers greater routing flexibility and strengthens Chennai’s position as a gateway for South and Central Indian trade.
Chennai’s connectivity with major hubs including Port Klang, Singapore, China and Southeast Asia also provides routing options for west-bound cargo through established transhipment hubs.