With the launch of India’s largest Greenfield Domestic Cargo Terminal (DCT), Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) is not just expanding its cargo capabilities but also facilitating seamless logistics growth inside and outside the terminal.
With increasing cargo capacity, a rise in truck movement at the Airport is inevitable. To meet this growing demand, BLR Cargo together with Shell Mobility has developed an Airport Truck Management Facility (ATMF) at BLR Airport. Already operational, this facility is ensuring seamless cargo movement, reducing congestion, and enhancing efficiency, further strengthening BLR Airport’s position as India’s premier cargo hub.
The ATMF ensures smooth operations by streamlining truck flow, enabling real-time processing, and providing driver amenities that enhance turnaround times and operational efficiency. Handling approximately 1,600 trucks daily, BLR Cargo has effectively addressed key inefficiencies such as congestion, delays, and limited driver facilities. With over 250 parking bays, the ATMF optimises operations through digital processing, automated approvals, and seamless cargo movement.
Technology-driven efficiency
By leveraging advanced digital solutions, the ATMF has transformed truck movement at BLR Airport:
• Automated, common pre-check ins, paperless entry and digitalised pick-ups and exit processes accelerate truck clearance
• Handheld devices for check-ins have slashed truck turnaround time from four hours to just one hour, with 78% of trucks waiting less than 20 minutes before entering cargo terminals
• 24/7 CCTV monitoring enhances security and operational oversight
• App-based approval mechanisms enable faster, digitised truck clearances, optimising logistics efficiency
Satyaki Raghunath, Chief Operating Officer, Bangalore International Airport Limited said, “Given the significant increase in cargo here at BLR Airport, it was time to invest in solutions that can ensure seamless and timely movement of trucks, as well as the well-being of truck drivers by providing essential amenities. That’s where BLR Cargo together with Shell Mobility India conceived India’s first on-airport truck management facility with a fully automated paperless truck entry and exit process at the Airport Truck Management Facility and cargo terminals. This has meant that cargo movement is now faster, more efficient, and better organized, significantly reducing wait times and congestion.”
Sanjay Varkey, Director, Shell Mobility, India, said, “Enhancing logistics efficiency involves the seamless movement of cargo, ensuring safe and sustainable operations, and caring for drivers and the on-ground community. The Airport Truck Management Facility provides a structured experience with a smart digital cargo truck movement system, ample parking with CCTV surveillance, clean dormitories and washrooms, and convenient food and beverage options. By integrating technology with essential driver services, Shell Mobility is transforming life’s journeys and enhancing efficiency, safety, and overall working conditions. This demonstrates that Shell Mobility is more than just a fuel station, it is a trusted partner in logistics and mobility solutions.”
Recognising the critical role of truck drivers in the cargo logistics ecosystem, BLR Cargo has prioritised driver welfare at the ATMF. This initiative underscores BLR Cargo’s commitment to improving working conditions while maintaining operational excellence.
With the ATMF, BLR Airport aims to enhance efficiency and sustainability in operations, strengthening its position as India’s premier cargo hub.
Several industry leaders have also commended the ATMF for its transformative impact:
Blue Dart Aviation (Chethan V, GM Airport Operations):
“It is worth mentioning that we manage around 125 trucks daily for the movement of our cargo to and from BLR Airport, which is part of our Blue Dart fleet. The limited docking space during peak hours has been a challenge for us. The Automated Truck Movement Facility (ATMF) has proven to be beneficial as it allows trucks with priority cargo to be prioritised for uplift first. This has helped in reducing congestion in our docking slots by ensuring the systematic arrival of trucks to our warehouse, preventing any disruption to normal traffic flow outside the warehouse. Overall, we find the ATMF concept to be effective, and we appreciate the service provided.
DHL Express (Mayank Puri, Gateway Manager):
“The implementation of the ATMF setup has resulted in a remarkable improvement in de-congestion on the cargo road, facilitating smooth movement of staff vehicles and trucks in and out of the terminal. The convenience of app-based approval for trucks has transitioned our operations to instant and digital processes, enhancing efficiency across the board.”
Shreeji Translogistics Limited (Dileepa BM, CEO Bonded Trucking):
“The Truck Management System introduced by BLR Airport stands out as one of the top facilities offered to drivers. It provides drivers with essential amenities such as sleeping and bathing facilities, along with readily available mobile charging points. The structured process of truck entry and departure, contingent upon approval from the custodians, empowers trade professionals to efficiently plan their shipments without unnecessary delays.”
