In a significant milestone for India’s cold chain and EXIM logistics sector, Modinagar Inland Container Depot (ICD) has successfully flagged off its first refrigerated (reefer) train to Mundra Port, opening a new rail-based logistics link for temperature-sensitive cargo between the National Capital Region (NCR) and the West Coast.
The milestone has been achieved through the collaboration of DP World, serving as the Container Train Operator, and JSB Cargo Movers Pvt. Ltd., acting as the Freight Forwarder, along with customers, rail partners, operations and commercial teams and other stakeholders across the logistics ecosystem.
The launch marks an important development in strengthening integrated EXIM connectivity from the NCR to Mundra Port, one of India’s key maritime gateways on the West Coast. The new reefer rail service is expected to provide customers handling temperature-sensitive and perishable commodities with an additional, reliable and efficient transportation solution.
The first reefer train movement is the culmination of sustained engagement, persistent follow-through and close coordination among the stakeholders involved. Bringing a specialised rail service from the planning stage to actual execution required considerable alignment across commercial, operational and rail-related functions.
For DP World, the milestone reinforces its role as a Container Train Operator in facilitating rail-led cargo connectivity and supporting integrated supply chains. Meanwhile, JSB Cargo Movers Pvt. Ltd., as the Freight Forwarder, played an important role in facilitating the movement and connecting customer requirements with the new logistics solution.
The commencement of reefer rail services from Modinagar is particularly significant for cargo that requires controlled-temperature transportation. By connecting the NCR directly with the West Coast’s maritime gateway, the service can contribute to more streamlined movement of temperature-sensitive EXIM cargo and enhance the overall cold chain logistics proposition for customers.
Beyond the movement of the first train, the milestone demonstrates the value of long-term stakeholder engagement, collaboration and determination in developing specialised logistics solutions. The successful launch reflects coordinated efforts involving customers, rail partners, DP World’s operations and commercial teams, JSB Cargo Movers and the wider logistics ecosystem.
The development also underlines the growing importance of rail-based transportation in India’s integrated EXIM and cold chain network, offering an alternative to road-based movement while strengthening the connection between inland logistics hubs and major ports.
With the first reefer train now successfully departing from Modinagar ICD for Mundra Port, the initiative marks a new chapter in cold chain logistics connectivity between North India and the West Coast, while creating opportunities for more efficient and integrated movement of temperature-sensitive cargo.
