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ATM News Network: In a significant development for the agricultural sector, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) has given the green light for the establishment of a dry port and multi-modal hub in Niphad, Nashik. This initiative falls under the "Sagarmala" program of the Central Government, aimed at enhancing connectivity, logistics facilities, and promoting exports from Central and North Maharashtra.
The decision comes after years of deliberation and efforts to address various challenges. The JNPA has directed the Nashik District Collectors to acquire 116.5 acres of land, including 108 acres belonging to the Niphad Cooperative Sugar Factory and an additional 8.5 acres of private land, to set up the dry port. This acquisition will be carried out at a cost of Rs 105 crore.
Nashik, renowned for its agricultural production, particularly in grapes, onions, and pomegranates, holds immense potential for exports of agricultural produce and processed goods. The dry port and multi-modal hub in Niphad will serve as a vital link in facilitating the transportation and export of these commodities, along with grapes, vegetables, dehydrated onions, construction machinery, automobiles, pharmaceutical products, and more from Nashik division.
The establishment of this dry port aims to provide better connectivity and logistics facilities, thus reducing the burden on existing seaports and enabling efficient movement of goods. Additionally, it will contribute to the reduction of debt and revitalisation of the Niphad Cooperative Sugar Factory.
The project, which was initially announced by former Union Road Transport and Port Development Minister Nitin Gadkari in 2014, faced delays due to financial challenges and changes in government policies. However, the persistent efforts of Dindori MP Dr. Bharti Pawar and Niphad MLA Diliprao Bankar, along with discussions with the then and now Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, have paved the way for its realisation.
Notably, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority has strategically modified the project by focusing on container depots to establish a multi-modal hub in Nashik's dry port area. In collaboration with the National Highway Authority, the JNPA has allocated an investment of Rs 500 crore for this project and has already begun preparing a detailed project report.
The recent approval of the project report and the initiation of the land acquisition process indicate a significant step forward. The JNPA has sought the necessary bank account details from the Nashik Collectorate to facilitate the payment for land acquisition and has entrusted the responsibility of acquiring additional private land for rail connectivity to the Collectorate.
As the dry port and multi-modal hub at Niphad progress, it is expected to play a pivotal role in promoting agricultural exports, driving economic development, and supporting the growth of the agricultural sector in Nashik.
What is a Dry Port?
A dry port, also known as an inland port or an intermodal terminal, is a facility located away from traditional seaports that serves as a hub for handling and processing cargo containers. Dry ports play a crucial role in facilitating trade by providing connectivity between seaports and inland locations, improving efficiency in logistics operations, and supporting the movement of goods.
How It Works?
In India, the process at ports involves several stages to ensure that containers are export-ready. Let's explore the key processes involved:
Documentation and Customs Clearance: Exporters are required to complete necessary documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, and shipping instructions. These documents are submitted to customs authorities for clearance, where they verify compliance with regulatory requirements and assess applicable duties and taxes.
Booking and Container Handling: Exporters book shipping containers with shipping lines or logistics service providers. Once the containers arrive at the port, they go through the process of container handling, including unloading, stacking, and storage at designated container yards.
Container Stuffing: Exporters arrange for their cargo to be loaded into the containers. This process involves securely packing and stuffing the goods into the container to ensure proper protection during transportation. The containers are sealed to maintain the integrity of the cargo.
Customs Examination: Customs authorities conduct examinations of selected containers to verify the accuracy of declared goods, assess duties and taxes, and ensure compliance with export regulations. This examination may involve physical inspections, X-ray scans, or other non-intrusive inspection techniques.
Port Security and Sealing: Containers that have passed customs examination are cleared for export. The containers are then secured with seals to prevent tampering during transit. The seals act as a visual indicator to verify that the container has not been opened since it left the port.
Container Loading onto Vessels: The export-ready containers are transported to the dock for loading onto vessels. This process involves using specialized equipment such as cranes and reach stackers to lift and place the containers onto the ships. Containers are stowed in a specific sequence to optimize vessel loading and maximize efficiency.
Port Operations and Documentation: Ports handle various operational tasks, including vessel scheduling, cargo tracking, and documentation. They generate bills of lading, which serve as evidence of the contract of carriage and provide details of the cargo being transported. Exporters receive these bills of lading once their containers are loaded onto the vessel.
Vessel Departure and Transit: Once the vessel is fully loaded and all necessary operations are completed, it departs from the port. The containers are now in transit to the destination seaport, where they will be unloaded and cleared for import by the respective customs authorities.
Throughout these processes, ports and logistics providers employ advanced technologies and tracking systems to monitor container movements, ensure security, and provide real-time visibility to exporters and importers.
It's important to note that specific processes and requirements may vary slightly depending on the port, regulatory frameworks, and individual trade agreements.
