Pipavav, India: The first double stack train was flagged off from ICD Gurugram (Garhi Harsaru) to APM Terminals Pipavav by Gateway Rail Freight Ltd. (a subsidiary of Gateway Distriparks Ltd.) and Ocean Network Express (ONE), which will provide assured connection to exporters. The double stack train transported 180 TEUs in a single journey.

The commodities carried were auto spare parts, laminated sheets, machinery parts, tiles, cotton yarn, motorcycles and air conditioners etc. The containers were for export to the destinations such as Colombo, Jakarta, Bangkok, Los Angeles, Tokyo and Singapore among others.

Currently, GatewayRail operates three weekly ‘Sakura’ import services through Pipavav Port for ONE; while this is the first export container train exclusively moved for ONE. The frequency of export containers through Pipavav is likely to increase further with this initiative.

Jakob Friis Sørensen Managing Director APM Terminals Pipavav said, “Due to the direct train service, the exporters will have advantage of exporting their goods safely and quickly.”

The Port had introduced the concept of block train loading that is dedicated for customers and the fast transit of valued cargo. After connectivity with DFC, the Port is likely to be a major beneficiary due to established infrastructure for double stack trains.