NHLML and IWAI Sign MoU to Develop Multi-Modal Logistics Park in Varanasi

New Delhi: In a major step towards enhancing India’s logistics infrastructure, the National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today for the development of a state-of-the-art Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The agreement was formalized in the presence of Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, and Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal.

The 150-acre logistics park is set to become a key hub for seamless multi-modal connectivity, linking road, rail, and waterways. Strategically positioned, the park will be connected to National Highway 7 (NH7) via a 650-meter access road and will be just 1.5 km away from the NH7-NH2 junction. It will also integrate with the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor through a 5.1 km railway link from Jeonathpur Station, while National Waterway-1 will further enhance transport efficiency. Additionally, the Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, located 30 km away, will boost its accessibility for cargo movement.

This initiative is expected to attract substantial investments and generate significant employment opportunities, strengthening India’s logistics sector, enhancing trade efficiency, and driving economic growth.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Nitin Gadkari emphasized that the MMLP in Varanasi will play a crucial role in reducing logistics costs, boosting supply chain efficiency, and reinforcing India’s ambition of becoming a global trade hub.

Echoing similar sentiments, Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted how integrating inland waterways with highways and rail networks will create sustainable and cost-effective transport solutions, ultimately benefiting businesses, farmers, and exporters.