JNPA launches first long-haul double-stack DFC rake

The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) has achieved a major milestone in rail freight connectivity with the departure of its first long-haul double-stack (D/S) rake on the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC).

The rake departed JNPA at 1900 hrs on August 21, 2026, carrying 360 TEUs of import cargo that arrived through BMCTPL, operated by PSA, and was bound for CGMV.

The commencement of long-haul double-stack operations will allow larger volumes of cargo to be transported in a single rake, improving the capacity and efficiency of rail-based freight movement. It is also expected to accelerate the evacuation of import containers, reduce dwell times and shorten transit times to inland destinations.

The milestone strengthens JNPA’s ability to support high-capacity, long-distance rail freight operations and provides an efficient alternative for the movement of EXIM cargo. Improved integration with the DFC network is expected to enhance connectivity between the port and key inland markets while reducing logistics bottlenecks.

Faster and more predictable cargo movement will also help improve supply-chain efficiency, enable quicker cargo availability at inland locations and support more effective inventory management for importers and exporters.

The first long-haul double-stack rake marks another step in JNPA’s efforts to strengthen multimodal connectivity and build a faster, more reliable and competitive logistics network for India’s EXIM trade.