Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), a prominent company of the Adani Group, achieved a significant milestone in FY23 by handling the highest-ever rail cargo volume. Surpassing the previous record, APSEZ handled 120.51 million metric tonnes (MMT) of rail cargo, showcasing its commitment to providing end-to-end logistics solutions. This remarkable achievement contributed to APSEZ’s revenue from rail cargo, which reached around INR 14,000 crore in FY23, benefiting the Indian Railways.
Under the Indian Railways‘ General Purpose Wagon Investment Scheme (GPWIS), APSEZ experienced remarkable growth in rail cargo handling, with a year-on-year (YoY) increase of 62%. Mundra Port, a significant port operated by APSEZ, played a pivotal role by handling over 15,000 container trains in FY23, establishing itself as India’s premier gateway for export and import (EXIM) trade.
In FY23, the handling of double-stack container trains at Mundra Port witnessed a YoY growth of 4.3%. This method of loading containers on trains enables energy-efficient and reliable transportation, reducing per-unit costs and enhancing customer satisfaction. APSEZ emphasized its dedication to environmentally friendly operations, stating that rail transport significantly reduces the carbon footprint of freight transportation. Additionally, the efficient handling of container trains minimizes the need for additional truck transport, leading to further reductions in carbon emissions.
In April 2023, APSEZ achieved a noteworthy cargo volume of 32.3 MMT, representing a YoY growth of 12.8%. This growth was supported by a 9% increase in dry cargo volume, including a substantial rise in iron ore (64%), non-coking coal (22%), and coastal coal (67%). Furthermore, container volumes experienced a significant YoY increase of 13.6%.
APSEZ’s investments in rail infrastructure played a vital role in its improved operational performance. For instance, Dahej Port completed the extension of overhead electric lines, enabling it to handle rakes with electric locomotives from the Indian Railways. The commissioning of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor lineup to Dadri will facilitate the operation of double-stack rake services from ICD Dadri to Mundra Port. This connection, combined with APSEZ’s ICD at Patli, will further enhance volumes at Mundra Port and contribute to the overall rail volumes for Adani Logistics. In April, APSEZ experienced substantial growth in rail container volumes, with a YoY increase of 22% amounting to 47,122 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). Additionally, bulk cargo volumes under the GPWIS surged by 40% YoY, reaching 1.4 million tonnes (MT).
APSEZ’s outstanding performance in rail cargo handling during FY23 underscores its commitment to delivering comprehensive logistics solutions. The company’s record-breaking rail cargo volume, substantial revenue generation, and sustainable practices, such as double-stack container trains, showcase its dedication to operational excellence and environmental responsibility. With continued investments in rail infrastructure and strategic connections, APSEZ is well-positioned to drive growth and further strengthen its position as a leading player in the logistics sector.
