Prakash Asphalting’s & Toll Highways (India) Limited is a leading construction company with a formidable track record in the transportation and infrastructure sectors across Central India. Renowned for its reliability and excellence, PATH consistently delivers projects of exceptional quality and efficiency, earning a top spot in the industry. Among its flagship projects is PATH Logicity Bengaluru, a crucial multi-modal logistics park (MMLP) executed by PATH India Ltd. This initiative is part of a larger plan for 35 MMLPs envisioned under PM Gati Shakti.
In an exclusive exchange with The Interview World, Raghav Maheshwari, MMLP Head at PATH Logicity Bengaluru, elaborates on the project’s significance. He provides insights into how this MMLP will address logistical and warehousing challenges in Bengaluru, highlighting the growing demand for such facilities amidst rapid industrialization. Here we present the key takeaways from his discussion.
Q: Could you provide details on the PATH Logicity Bengaluru project?
A: The MMLP Bengaluru project, named PATH Logicity Bengaluru, represents a pioneering multi-modal logistics park situated near Dabaspet Circle in Bangalore. Spanning 393 acres, it features state-of-the-art facilities including logistics centers, warehousing solutions, a rail terminal, an inland container depot (ICD), and commercial spaces.
This landmark project stands out as India’s largest and first-of-its-kind multi-modal logistics park. Operated under a PPP model, it is a collaborative effort involving National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd. (RVNL), and Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB).
PATH Logicity Bengaluru boasts 4.5 million square feet of warehousing space, six railway sidings, an ICD facility, and approximately 40 acres of commercial areas. Strategically located, it offers direct access to National Highway NH648 via Satellite down Ring Road, just five kilometers from Dabaspet Circle.
Q: How do you see this project will address the challenges of logistics and warehousing in and around Bengaluru?
A: Our primary challenge revolves around managing our existing ICD facilities, particularly ICD Whitefield, which stands as one of the country’s oldest, established 30 years ago. This facility currently faces significant congestion issues, limiting container and truck movements strictly to the timeframe between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
In contrast, our newly developed privately-owned facility promises enhanced operational efficiencies. It boasts grade A warehousing infrastructure and best-in-class facilities, consolidating all services under one roof, including a dedicated terminal.
This consolidation offers manifold advantages, ensuring streamlined operations and comprehensive service offerings within a unified framework
Q: Can you elaborate on the types of automation facilities that will be available in the multi-modal park?
A: Our warehousing facilities are top-tier, featuring grade A infrastructure including a state-of-the-art container terminal available for lease. This allows us to tailor spaces precisely to our customers’ needs.
In addition to superior infrastructure, sustainability is a cornerstone of our operations. Our facility incorporates water waste harvesting and solar panels, ensuring a water-positive environment.
We are committed to achieving GRIHA-5 certification, aligning with industry standards for sustainable building practices.
Our site includes in-house ponds to efficiently manage water resources, ensuring comprehensive water management on-site.
Furthermore, our electricity needs are met through supply agreements with local authorities, ensuring uninterrupted service as per our concession agreement.
Q: Could you share how many MMLPs your company is currently designing across the country?
A: Currently, only four parks have submitted bids. Looking ahead, there will be 35 MMLPs nationwide. This facility represents one of these upcoming opportunities. As future bids open, we anticipate pursuing additional facilities. Our goal is to establish four to five high-quality facilities across the country.
Q: Do your MMLPs specialize in specific industries, or are they designed to cater to all verticals and sectors?
A: There are no specific restrictions applicable to any industry. The prominent industries in Bangalore and the Nelamangala region include machinery and white goods, alongside significant automobile activity.
Moreover, this facility will serve as a hub for extensive collaboration, enabling goods to converge and be efficiently transported by train to Chennai or other ports nationwide. It will facilitate substantial consolidation, offering businesses a centralized location for inventory management.
Instead of maintaining multiple warehouses scattered across the city, businesses can consolidate operations into a single facility spanning six to eight lakh square feet. This consolidation promises enhanced logistics efficiency and operational benefits.
Q: Could you elaborate on the potential for integrating this park with cold chains to enhance logistical efficiency and preserve product quality?
A: Yes, absolutely. The facility includes temperature-controlled warehouses and cold chain capabilities, making it a comprehensive built-to-suit model.
We tailor the design to meet specific customer requirements and offer leasing options. Construction is scheduled to commence in two months, with the first phase expected to be completed by 2026.
The development will progress in three phases over a maximum period of 15 years. However, given the strong demand we anticipate, completion may occur sooner.
Q: How do you perceive the demand and growth potential for such parks in the Indian market?
A: Under PM Gati Shakti, the government has allocated approximately Rs. 46,000 crores for the development of 35 Multi-Modal Logistics Parks (MMLPs) nationwide. The primary objective is to reduce current logistics costs, currently at 13-14%, to single-digit figures. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to establishing these parks across the country, aiming for substantial long-term benefits.
