Maharashtra is set to expand its inland water transport network as seven national waterways, spanning about 662.97 km, have been identified for development by the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The move builds on the state’s strong IWT role, with six waterways contributing over 45% of India’s cargo movement in 2024–25. Supported by IWAI, the initiative aligns with the Maharashtra Logistics Policy 2024, aiming to boost cargo efficiency, reduce logistics costs, and drive port-led regional growth.

Indian Railways marked a major milestone by operating the Niryat Cargo Express as a double-stack container train from Ichhapuri Container Terminal, Gurugram, to Mundra Port. This is the first timetable-based assured transit service from Ichhapuri, following earlier trips from Garhi. The weekly, time-bound service offers faster, reliable cargo movement with minimal halts, reducing delays and logistics costs. Operated by Northern Railway’s Delhi Division, the initiative boosts export efficiency and strengthens rail-based freight connectivity for high-value cargo.

Dahej Port set a new operational benchmark by dispatching 30,965 MT of cargo within 24 hours, surpassing its earlier record of 29,337 MT. This achievement was driven by seamless coordination between port operations and logistics partners, with 872 trucks handling cargo efficiently. The milestone highlights the port’s enhanced capacity, efficiency, and reliability. Officials credited sustained investments in infrastructure, technology, and manpower, reinforcing Dahej Port’s growing role as a key logistics hub supporting domestic and international trade.

Maharashtra is accelerating its maritime ambitions, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directing officials to fast-track development of what is planned to be India’s largest shipyard, leveraging the state’s coastline and the proposed deep-draft Vadhavan Port. He also called for expediting DPR preparation and coastal connectivity to meet a 2026 target. In parallel, Fadnavis pushed for rapid rollout of the Mumbai Water Metro, envisaged as a modern, largely electric water transport system, reinforcing Maharashtra’s bid to emerge as a national maritime and shipbuilding hub.

CMA CGM’s Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal has introduced a series of operational measures to tackle persistent landside congestion at JNPA, India’s largest container port. The terminal has focused on improving gate productivity, streamlining truck processing and optimising yard operations to stabilise turnaround times. Enhanced coordination with transporters and better slot management aim to manage peak-hour traffic more efficiently. With Nhava Sheva handling a major share of India’s container trade, easing congestion is critical to reducing delays, controlling logistics costs and maintaining supply chain reliability.