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Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) signed a memorandum of understanding with Deendayal Port Authority, Umeandus Technology Private Limited, and BEML Limited to develop a real-time automated cargo evacuation system (e-FTS) at Kandla Port in Gujarat. As part of the agreement, DMRC will manage operations and maintenance of the pilot project for 25 years. The system will integrate blockchain, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to enhance cargo-handling efficiency, lower operational costs, and promote sustainability. The concept also holds potential for replication at other major ports in the future.
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has forayed into the port logistics sector through an agreement with Deendayal Port Authority, Umeandus Technology, and BEML to design and implement an automated freight transport system (e-FTS) at Kandla Port in Gujarat. The memorandum of understanding, signed earlier this week, outlines that DMRC will oversee the operation and maintenance of this pilot project for the next 25 years. The collaboration marks a notable diversification for DMRC, which has so far been primarily associated with urban metro rail infrastructure. Advertisement
The e-FTS has been conceptualised as a smart and automated system tailored for the port environment. It will combine advanced digital technologies such as blockchain for maintaining data transparency, artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive logistics management, and IoT for real-time tracking and monitoring of cargo movement. The objective of the system is to improve overall port efficiency, reduce operational costs, and ensure sustainable cargo handling. The proposed technology integration aims to create a seamless and efficient cargo movement system that can serve as a model for ports across the country.
DMRC has indicated that once the pilot project at Kandla proves successful, the same framework can be implemented at other ports or inland logistics hubs based on their operational needs and conditions. This could help standardise automated cargo-handling solutions across India's major ports, strengthening logistics efficiency and connectivity between maritime and inland transport systems.
The partnership brings together the expertise of four key organisations. The Deendayal Port Authority will act as the host and client for the project, facilitating its implementation at Kandla Port. DMRC will leverage its infrastructure and operations experience to manage the system's functioning and upkeep during the 25-year term. BEML Limited will be responsible for designing and manufacturing the automated transport units that will form the core of the evacuation system. Umeandus Technology, meanwhile, will focus on integrating digital automation and technological elements that ensure system reliability and optimisation.
DMRC's entry into the port logistics sector reflects a strategic step towards diversification beyond urban metro operations. The organisation's involvement in this project highlights how infrastructure companies are expanding into adjacent sectors like freight movement and digital logistics. Alongside this initiative, DMRC has also been recognised by the Indian Concrete Institute, which selected it for the "Outstanding Pre-stressed Concrete Structure in the Country" award for the Maujpur-Majlis Park corridor under Phase-4 of the Delhi Metro expansion. The formal presentation of this award is scheduled to take place later this year.
Source PTI
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