Apart from handling cargo, Karaikal Port Private Limited has also taken up the responsibility to ensure that cargo reach the doorsteps of consumers safely .jpg) Developed by Marg International, Karaikal Port Private Limited (KKPL), a private port located in the Karaikal district of Puducherry, which became operational in April 2009, is fast emerging as a port offering more than just cargo handling facilities. Located on the eastern coast of India, the port offers complete logistics solutions to its customers by undertaking the responsibility of ensuring that imported materials reach the doorsteps of customers safely. While speaking to a ShippingBiz360 correspondent about this initiative undertaken by KKPL, Ramesh Kumar Kona, senior general manager of business development at KKPL, commented, “After closely studying the market dynamics we have undertaken this initiative. We found that customers face a lot of difficulties while making choices about availing the perfect mode of transportation for swift delivery of their cargo. So, we have taken this step to deliver cargo to our customers’ doorsteps.” Mr Kona also added that since the port is relatively new, this initiative will help it to expand its clientele.
Popularity of private ports
“Such measures undertaken by private ports have gone a long way in increasing their popularity and ensure that shipping and logistics fraternity look forward to them for availing better services. Providing such facilities requires transparency and proper coordination among various departments of the port. Moreover, innovative thinking of ports also has a positive impact on its operations,” comments D Kumarasen, managing director of Sunlight Logistics Pvt Ltd, a mid-sized logistics firm in Chennai.
Industry players also opine that good connectivity of KKPL with major highways has facilitated its initiative of providing end-to-end logistics solutions. KKPL is connected by major roads to national highway (NH) 67, which connects the port to central Tamil Nadu (TN). It is also connected to Chennai via NH-45A and enjoys a distinct advantage to the hinterland of central TN, as compared to other major ports in the state.
Arup Choudhury |
