Planning of Multi-modal Logistics Parks- Case study of Delhi National Capital region

India’s logistics system is facing challenges like high logistics cost and poor logistics performance index. Logistics costs in India was 13-14% of GDP in 2015 compared to other developed economies 7 – 8% and India ranked at 44 in the world LPI in 2018. Major factors that impact the logistics cost in India are Unfavourable inter-modal mix, Under developed material handling, Inefficient fleet mix, outdated/ inefficient service model and fragmented institutional and governance structure. Multi modal logistics parks can reduce the negative impact of first three factors mentioned above as it provides multi-modal connectivity for different modes so, that there will be a shift to rail from road as rail is 45% cheaper than road, MMLP focuses on providing specialised facilities for warehousing and storage and MMLP also plan for advanced and much more capable & efficient fleet. MMLP also functions as the freight aggregator and distributor and provided the values added services like custom clearance with bonded storage yards, warehousing management services using information technology, making the process faster and more efficient. National logistics policy of India is also aiming to reduce the Logistics cost as a percentage of GDP to about 10% and optimize the modal mix, by emphasising on development of Multi-modal logistics parks.

Research paper begins with the question “what is Multi-modal logistics parks” and tries to define it by comparing it with other Multi-modal logistics facilities. In literature it focuses on planning norms and standards available for MMLP in India and the policy efforts by government for development of MMLP’s. It tries to identify the parameters that are to be considered while planning for Multi-modal logistics parks in India from 4 pre-feasibility studies for proposed MMMLP at Jogighopa, Banglore, Chennai and Mihan (Nagpur).

This research paper focuses to develop a methodology for locating Multi-modal logistics parks or similar facility. Methodology starts with identification of location parameters followed by selection of best potential district in NCR for locating MMLP using weighted Composite Index.  Analytical hierarchy process was also used to provide the weights to the identified parameters through stakeholder survey. Later it focuses on micro planning or site selection for the MMLP in selected district. Similar multi-modal logistics facility Inland container depot at Dadri and Inland container Depot at Patli were surveyed to understand the operational & management characteristics.

This research paper also focuses on freight traffic estimation and forecast for the proposed MMLP for the year 2031 & 2041. Impacts of the proposed MMLP’s on logistics landscape were also assessed in terms of logistics cost, congestion and vehicular pollution.  At last study had recommended guidelines for location selection criteria, area estimation and cargo type for the Multi-modal Logistics Parks in India.