Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurates the Sonik Logistics Hub and launches two new freight services, cutting costs by 7.5% and saving 30% of time.
In a major boost to India’s logistics efficiency, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated the Sonik Integrated Logistics Hub and flagged off two new door-to-door freight and parcel services, setting the stage for a more efficient and cost-effective cargo movement ecosystem in the country.
“Door-to-door services are essential for the country, as they enhance efficiency and significantly reduce logistics costs,” Vaishnaw said at the virtual inauguration. He noted that industries can now dispatch even smaller consignments without the need to fill entire rakes, bridging the logistical gap between factories and train terminals.
Located strategically between Lucknow and Kanpur, the Sonik hub is the first integrated logistics hub to offer this facility. Managed by Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), the terminal will handle a wide range of commodities, including fertilisers, food grains, cement, and tractors.
As part of this initiative, Indian Railways also launched an Assured Transit Container Train Service between Delhi and Kolkata, guaranteeing a 120-hour transit time with bi-weekly departures. Bookings can be made through the CONCOR e-Logistics mobile app, ensuring seamless first- and last-mile connectivity.
Additionally, a door-to-door rail parcel service between Mumbai and Kolkata is now operational, offering a 7.5% reduction in logistics costs and 30% faster transit compared to road transport. This service, already handling shipments for leading brands like Castrol India, VIP Industries, Godrej & Boyce Mfg. Co., and Nestlé, spans 1930 km and integrates first mile, rail transit, and last mile delivery.
“This represents a paradigm shift in rail-based logistics, from being just a transporter to a full-fledged logistics service provider,” said Satish Kumar, Chairman & CEO, Railway Board.
With Indian Railways, the world’s second-largest freight carrier moving 1.6 billion tonnes annually, embracing integrated logistics, the move aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat to build a modern, multimodal freight ecosystem that strengthens supply chains, boosts exports, and supports industries across sectors.
Source: PIB
