India’s logistics sector is undergoing a notable shift with the rise of multimodal logistics parks (MMLPs) and integrated logistics hubs. Long characterised by fragmented networks and high costs, the system constrained industrial and export competitiveness. The growing focus on logistics parks, particularly MMLPs, reflects a shift from fragmented capacity creation to integrated logistics reform. Anchored in the National Logistics Policy and PM Gati Shakti programme, these hubs combine multimodal infrastructure, such as rail and road terminals, warehousing, cold storage, truck terminals and digital logistics platforms to reduce costs and accelerate freight movement, supporting India’s global manufacturing ambitions. With an increased focus on investment in new facilities, digital adoption and sustainability initiatives, MMLPs are poised to transform India’s logistics landscape in a more integrated, efficient and coordinated manner.
Key recent developments
India’s logistics infrastructure is rapidly evolving with the development of MMLPs and integrated logistics parks across key regions. These projects aim to boost freight efficiency, reduce costs and support the growing demands of manufacturing and trade. In a recent development, work on the proposed MMLP near Pithampura in Dhar district has begun as of August 2025. The project, estimated to cost Rs 11.11 billion, will be divided into multiple operational zones to support a range of logistics services, including warehousing, specialised storage, freight transportation, cargo aggregation and container handling, among other facilities. The project also features a dedicated commercial zone, accounting for around 10 per cent of the total area of the park, which is about 113 hectares.
As of May 2025, the development work on the first phase of Chennai’s Mappedu MMLP is under way. Strategically located near major automobile clusters, the facility is expected to enable seamless cargo movement to Chennai, Ennore and Kattupalli ports, all situated within a distance of 50-80 km. The MMLP will house warehouses, customs facilities, container stack yards, rail connectivity, cold storage, and others. The contract for the project has been awarded to Reliance Industries Limited, with construction progressing for over a year and closely monitored by the Chennai Port Authority. Developed at an estimated cost of Rs 14.24 billion spanning an approximate area of 181 acres, the project is planned in three phases, with Phase I targeted for completion by February 2026.
Meanwhile, in April 2025, Nagpur’s MMLP at Sindi near Wardha, Maharashtra, began commercial operations, marking a significant step in boosting last-mile connectivity and freight efficiency under the PM Gati Shakti initiative.
Digital deployments for real-time tracking
Digital technologies are increasingly becoming central to logistics parks and MMLPs, enabling a more data-driven, automated and connected freight ecosystem. One of the initiatives, called the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP), acts as a common digital gateway connecting government and industry systems through application programming interfaces (API). It enables real-time data sharing and faster clearances, improving coordination across logistics parks and supply chains. As of December 2025, ULIP had integrated 44 systems across 11 ministries through 136 APIs, covering over 2,000 data fields and enabling real-time data sharing across logistics operations.
Sustainable initiatives
Sustainability is becoming central to logistics parks and MMLPs through greater use of renewable energy and green practices. One notable example of sustainability in logistics infrastructure is XSIO Logistics Parks Private Limited’s plan to build India’s first smart logistics park in Nagpur as of December 2025. This facility will use artificial intelligence to monitor and reduce carbon footprints, improve sewage treatment, manage pollution and implement other environmentally friendly measures as part of its core operations.
Sustainability is gaining momentum across the logistics sector, with parks increasingly adopting rooftop solar, energy-efficient lighting, and electric vehicle charging. These measures reduce energy use and operating costs while supporting long-term sustainability goals. Rising demand from multinational firms for green infrastructure is also pushing developers to adopt energy-efficient designs and materials, strengthening environmental performance across logistics real estate.
Pacing future steps
Going forward, the development of MMLPs and logistics parks must focus on faster execution and streamlined approvals. Stronger public-private partnerships will be critical to translating plans into on-ground infrastructure efficiently. Closer integration with industrial corridors, ports, freight routes and urban centres will also be essential to ensure seamless cargo movement. Additionally, several MMLPs are at various stages of development. For instance, MMLPs at Jogighopa, Chennai, Bengaluru and Indore are currently under development and are expected to become operational in the near future.
The next phase of MMLP development will depend on deeper digitalisation, sustainability and ecosystem building. Platforms such as ULIP, geographic information system-based planning under programmes like PM Gati Shakti and automation will enhance visibility, coordination and asset use across logistics parks. Sustainability measures, including renewable energy, electric freight, rail evacuation and green warehousing, are poised to lower emissions and costs. Complementing this, the Open Network for Digital Commerce is integrating logistics providers into open digital networks, improving market access, scalability and real-time service visibility across freight ecosystems.
