SIMIC

To this end, Maersk recently performed its first door-to-door containerised rail operation to an interior point in India's eastern state of Odisha.

Handled on behalf of Shyam Metalics & Energy Ltd, the 80-TEU import movement to Sambalpur via the Jharsuguda inland container depot (ICD) marked the addition of another inland market to Maersk's vast, and growing nationwide network.

"The ICD aims to reduce the complexities in the supply chain, enabling small and medium-sized businesses to multiply the benefits of trade," said Maersk. "This will further encourage inclusive growth and prosperity across the region."

The Danish carrier said because the rail terminal is strategically located in Odisha's prime industrial belt, customers can instantly pick up empty containers, enabling them to save on inland costs - an area the Indian government has been intensely engaging with various stakeholders for improvements.

Said Maersk South Asia chief Steve Felder: "Our aim is to simplify trade by facilitating end-to-end logistics, reducing the transit time and cost to make it more accessible and sustainable for everyone."

Weekly train service for exports from the world's largest container carrier also plans to operate a weekly train service from Jharsuguda for export cargo, buoyed by a volume potential of more than 4,000 TEU annually.