NASHIK: In a significant move towards enhancing the logistics infrastructure in Maharashtra, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has invited bids for the construction of a Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) in Nashik.
This Rs 336.55 crore project is being executed by the National Highways Logistics Management Ltd. (NHLML), a special purpose vehicle of NHAI, under a design-build-finance-operate-and-transfer (DBFOT) framework. The proposed logistics park in Niphad taluka will be the third of its kind in Maharashtra, following similar projects in Nagpur and Pune. This initiative is part of a broader strategy under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan to develop 35 MMLPs across India, targeting key freight movement regions to enhance efficiency and reduce logistics costs. The Nagpur MMLP, which marked Maharashtra’s first logistics park, was awarded to DC Multi-Modal Park (Nagpur) Limited, a special purpose vehicle of Deltabulk Shipping, the Indian unit of London-based Delta Corp. This project is being developed over 150 acres at an estimated cost of Rs 673 crore under the Public Private Partnership model.
In December last year, NHAI also invited bids for the construction of a logistics park in Pawalewadi village, located in the Maval taluka of Pune, with an estimated investment of Rs 1,360.79 crore. These projects highlight the rapid development and strategic planning aimed at bolstering India’s logistics sector.mThe establishment of these MMLPs is crucial in reducing logistics costs to 8-9% of the gross domestic product (GDP) from the current 14%, thereby making India more competitive on the global stage. The logistics sector is a significant component of the economy, influencing the efficiency of import-export activities and overall economic growth.
Catering to 50% of the nation’s road freight movement, these MMLPs aim to streamline the movement of goods across the country, enhancing logistical efficiency and reducing transit times. The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan envisions these parks as key facilitators in achieving these goals. To date, contracts have been awarded for five MMLPs, including those in Nagpur, Chennai, Bengaluru, Indore, and Jogighopa. The pioneering MMLP in Jogighopa, Guwahati, Assam, had its foundation laid in October 2020 and is expected to be completed this year. The strategic development of the Nashik MMLP underscores the NHAI’s commitment to modernising India’s logistics infrastructure, fostering economic growth, and improving the country’s competitiveness in the global market. This project is set to play a pivotal role in transforming Nashik into a critical logistics hub in Maharashtra, supporting the region’s industrial and commercial activities.
