DP World, Deendayal Port and Nevomo sign MoU to explore Autonomous Magnetic Rail Freight Movement

By Admin

16 Jul, 2025

In a bold move to transform India’s freight logistics landscape, DP World, Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), and Nevomo have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the deployment of MagRail, a revolutionary autonomous rail technology. This collaboration seeks to implement a pilot project using Nevomo’s proprietary MagRail system for self-propelled cargo movement within Deendayal Port’s operational environment in Kandla, Gujarat.

A Leap Toward Smart, Sustainable Cargo Solutions

DP World, a global leader in smart supply chain solutions, continues to push the boundaries of logistics innovation by introducing cutting-edge technologies like MagRail. In partnership with Deendayal Port Authority one of India’s key multi-cargo ports under the Government of India this initiative focuses on evaluating the feasibility of integrating magnetic rail systems into existing port infrastructure.

This strategic partnership is fully aligned with the goals of India’s National Logistics Policy and the PM Gati Shakti initiative, both of which aim to modernize, integrate, and digitize the country's logistics infrastructure to support future trade growth.

The MagRail Pilot: A First-of-its-Kind in India

The MoU outlines plans for a 750-metre pilot project within Deendayal Port using MagRail technology. This will be the first live demonstration in India of autonomous, electric-powered freight wagons moving on existing rail infrastructure using linear motor technology.

MagRail promises to:

• Enhance cargo capacity and efficiency
  
  

• Enable higher-speed freight operations
  
  

• Reduce operational costs
  
  

• Significantly cut down CO₂ emissions
  
  

• Minimize dependency on diesel-fueled vehicles
  
  

This innovation targets short-haul cargo transfers, particularly within yard operations, and aims to create a greener, smarter, and more interoperable logistics ecosystem.

Leadership Perspectives: Driving India’s Logistic Transformation

Commenting on this major development, Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, IRSME, Chairman of Deendayal Port Authority, emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership:
“This collaboration is a strategic advancement in port infrastructure, enhancing capacity and operational efficiency to support growing cargo demands. DP World, as a trusted partner, plays a crucial role in enabling this initiative, which aligns with our commitment to strengthening India’s logistics framework and ensuring seamless trade facilitation.”

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, highlighted the company’s global vision:
“At DP World, we are committed to future-proofing our terminals by adopting innovative technologies that redefine how cargo moves through the supply chain. Piloting solutions like MagRail aligns with our focus on enhancing speed, efficiency, and sustainability in logistics.”

Rizwan Soomar, CEO & Managing Director, DP World Middle East, North Africa & India Subcontinent, added:
“We believe transformative infrastructure is driven by collaboration and long-term thinking. This partnership allows us to reimagine freight movement in India while supporting carbon neutrality through advanced technology.”

From Nevomo’s side, CEO Przemek (Ben) Paczek expressed enthusiasm for the project’s potential:
“We are proud to partner in this innovative initiative at Deendayal Port to showcase MagRail’s real-world potential in enhancing freight efficiency, capacity, and flexibility. Collaborating with world-class organizations like DP World and DPA is a significant step toward advancing sustainable logistics in India.”

Shaping the Future of Indian Ports

This visionary initiative is not just about enhancing terminal operations it’s a critical step toward redefining India’s port-led development strategy. By integrating smart mobility systems like MagRail, Deendayal Port sets a precedent for other Indian ports to follow in embracing green, automated, and technology-led solutions.

As the pilot project moves forward, it is expected to create new benchmarks for efficiency and sustainability, demonstrating how innovative partnerships can turn ports into powerhouses of global trade and economic growth.

Conclusion

With the signing of this MoU, DP World, DPA, and Nevomo have initiated a new chapter in India’s freight movement journey. The MagRail pilot project is poised to redefine the standards for port logistics, offering a model that could be replicated across India's major trade hubs. This collaboration highlights the power of technology, innovation, and strategic partnership in shaping the future of logistics.