(Commonwealth_ Ocean Network Express (ONE) has announced the launch of a new gateway service for customers in Kolkata and Haldia, aiming to revolutionize export and import cargo handling in the region. This initiative provides seamless connectivity through Balmer Lawrie CFS, leveraging rail services to link directly with mainline vessels at Nhava Sheva Port. The new service is designed to offer faster and more efficient access to key global destinations, including the USA, Europe, the Mediterranean, and Africa.
The upgraded service offers significant advantages for both export and import shipments. Export cargo will now be routed through Balmer Lawrie CFS in Kolkata, where it will be transported by rail to Nhava Sheva Port for direct loading onto mainline vessels. This eliminates delays caused by transshipment at intermediate ports such as Singapore, Port Kelang, or Colombo, ensuring a more streamlined and reliable shipping process. Similarly, inbound cargo arriving at Nhava Sheva Port will be swiftly transported by rail to Balmer Lawrie CFS in Kolkata, facilitating faster and more efficient delivery to end destinations.
Key Features of the New Service
The new service introduces several features aimed at improving the overall shipping experience for customers:
Fixed-Day Train Departures from Kolkata
A major highlight is the fixed-day train schedule for export shipments. With a Wednesday cut-off and Thursday departure from Balmer Lawrie CFS in Kolkata, customers can plan their logistics with greater precision and reliability.
Direct mainline connectivity
Rail export cargo from Balmer Lawrie CFS will directly connect with mainline vessels at Nhava Sheva Port. This eliminates the need for transshipment at regional hubs such as Singapore, Port Kelang, or Colombo, significantly reducing transit times and minimizing the risk of delays.
Efficient Handling of Import Cargo
Import shipments will be similarly streamlined. Cargo discharged at Nhava Sheva Port will be transported by rail to Kolkata’s Balmer Lawrie CFS, providing a faster and more reliable alternative to traditional transshipment methods.
Reduced Waiting Times
The elimination of transshipment points ensures that both export and import shipments experience no delays at intermediate ports. This results in smoother operations, faster delivery times, and improved service consistency.
Benefits for Exporters and Importers
This initiative by ONE provides multiple advantages for businesses engaged in international trade:
Enhanced Speed and Efficiency: Direct rail connectivity to Nhava Sheva Port ensures faster transit times, enabling exporters and importers to meet tight deadlines and improve operational efficiency.
Reliability and Consistency: Fixed schedules and the elimination of transshipment delays result in more predictable and dependable shipping operations.
Cost-Effective Solutions: By minimizing waiting times and intermediate handling, the service offers a more economical alternative to traditional shipping routes.
Global Reach: The new service opens up direct access to major global destinations, including North America, Europe, the Mediterranean, and Africa, enhancing opportunities for trade and business expansion.
Impact on Regional Trade and Logistics
The introduction of this service marks a significant milestone for the logistics and trade sectors in eastern India. Kolkata and Haldia, as critical hubs for export and import activities, now have a direct and reliable gateway to global markets. The streamlined rail connectivity to Nhava Sheva Port eliminates logistical bottlenecks and positions the region as a more competitive player in the international trade arena.
By offering faster transit times and direct access to global shipping networks, ONE’s new service is expected to boost trade volumes, reduce operational inefficiencies, and support businesses in expanding their market reach. The enhanced connectivity aligns with India’s broader vision of improving its logistics infrastructure and strengthening its position in global supply chains.
Looking Ahead
Ocean Network Express’s launch of this new gateway service underscores its commitment to delivering innovative and customer-centric solutions. By addressing long-standing challenges in cargo handling and transit, this initiative not only enhances the shipping experience for customers but also contributes to the growth and development of regional trade.
The service, with its focus on speed, reliability, and efficiency, has the potential to revolutionize the competitive landscape for exporters and importers in Kolkata and Haldia, empowering them to thrive in the global marketplace. As the service gains traction, it has the potential to unlock new business opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region.
