In a significant development aimed to transform India’s logistical landscape, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has declared Nagpur as the prospective ‘Logistics Capital’ of the country. Speaking at the inauguration of the Multimodal Logistics Park at Sindhi Railways on Thursday, Gadkari underlined Nagpur’s pivotal role in industrial expansion and outlined plans to integrate industries with the Sindhi Dry Port. He envisions Nagpur emerging as a vital logistics hub, leveraging its central location and robust highway network.
The inauguration of the Multimodal Logistics Park at Sindhi Railways marked a significant milestone in Gadkari’s ambitious vision. The event, jointly organized by the Indian National Highways Authority and National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), saw the presence of prominent figures including Ramdas Tadas, MLA Pankaj Bhoyar, and former MLA Suresh Waghmare.
Addressing the audience, Nitin Gadkari Highlighted the benefits for farmers, he emphasized streamlined export channels, reduced logistical costs, and potential solutions to agricultural challenges. He alos outlined plans to facilitate direct exports from the logistics park to Haldia (West Bengal) and subsequently to Bangladesh via rail.
Close proximity to Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport and the Nagpur-Mumbai Highway enhances the project’s significance,” remarked Gadkari. “It offers hope for farmers through streamlined export channels, lowered logistical expenses, and the prospect of alleviating agricultural challenges, ensuring fair prices for their produce.
Gadkari outlined his vision to integrate Sindi, part of Wardha district, with Nagpur, aiming to drive significant industrial growth. He stressed plans to forge strong connections between Nagpur’s industries and the Sindi Dry Port, envisioning Nagpur as India’s premier “logistics capital.” Additionally, he directed the formation of an advisory board for the dry port, urging the inclusion of experts, industry representatives, and public figures. MP Ramdas Tadas noted the transformation, citing that Wardha had only 160 km of roads before 2014, now expanded to 560 km under Minister Gadkari’s leadership. The event was moderated by Renuka Deshkar.
Employment for Locals at Vidarbha Logistics Park:
Gadkari urges Vidarbha entrepreneurs to prioritize local employment at the logistics park. He emphasizes the need for both local and external entrepreneurs to contribute. Wardha district entrepreneurs are particularly urged to step up. Agriculture-based industries’ expansion will create substantial job opportunities, prioritizing employment for locals, Gadkari stresses.
Nagpur-Vardha in just 35 minutes
Due to the commencement of work on the fourth line of the railway track between Nagpur and Vardha, as well as the agreement for the Nagpur-Vardha broad gauge metro, the Nagpur-Vardha distance can be covered in just 35 minutes, said Mr. Nitin Gadkari. Currently, a budget of 106 crores has been allocated for the cement concrete and paving of the Sindhi to Seldo road, and soon work on this road will begin, Mr. Gadkari added.