According to a report by real estate consulting firm CBRE titled, ‘India Industrial and Logistics Figures H1 2024’ highlights that, Industrial and logistics leasing activity stood at 16.6 million sq. ft. in H1 2024, a decrease of about 14% on a year-over-year (YoY) basis. Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, and Kolkata dominated the half-yearly leasing activity; together, these cities accounted for almost 60% of the overall space take-up. Third-party logistics players continued to drive the Industrial and logistics space absorption with a share of about 40%, followed by engineering and manufacturing firms (18%), FMCG companies (10%) and e-commerce players (9%). Supply addition decreased by about 12% YoY to reach 15.5 million sq. ft. during H1 2024.

  CJ Darcl Logistics Ltd is set to begin the transportation of heavy construction equipment, i.e., excavators via specialised rail rakes. This initiative positions CJ Darcl as the first in the industry to utilise the Indian Railways network for aggregating machines from multiple OEMs and transporting them from Chennai (Tamil Nadu) to Ballabgarh (Haryana). In a move that underscores its commitment to sustainability and efficiency, CJ Darcl transported 34 excavators using specialised rakes, including models from Volvo CE, Komatsu India Private Limited, and Gainwell Commosales Private Limited. This initiative closely aligns with the company’s mission to integrate eco-friendly practices into its logistics operations. KK Agarwal, CMD, CJ Darcl said, “We are driving a transformative shift in how heavy equipment is transported across the nation. Embracing rail transport is in line with India’s vision of modern, eco-friendly infrastructure. This initiative is a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and leadership in the logistics sector. We are proud to pave the way for a more sustainable future.” “Our decision to employ rail transport for excavators marks a significant advancement in our sustainability commitment. This initiative not only minimises our carbon footprint but also underscores our dedication to leading the logistics industry toward a more environmentally friendly and efficient future,” said Nikhil Agarwal, President, CJ Darcl. “We are establishing a new standard in sustainable logistics, demonstrating that innovation and responsibility can coexist. We also extend our sincere gratitude to our valued customers for supporting this movement.” The use of rail rakes for moving excavators represents a major advancement in logistics. Rakes, integral to the Indian Railways’ infrastructure, are designed to handle heavy loads efficiently. Consolidating several excavators into one transport unit …

Industry veteran H. K. Vithalani, the Founder Chairman of Global Aviation Services, was felicitated with Gold Award under the category, ‘Gallery of Legends’, at the recently held India Cargo Awards 2024. His award was received by Jalpa Vithalani, Director, Global Aviation Services. She said, “India Cargo Awards and Cargo Talk is an organisation that we personally revere a lot and, this awards ceremony means a lot to us. My father was honoured with the Gallery of Legends award, and I would say it’s a culmination of his life’s work. Cargo and the aviation industry has been his truest passion, so this acknowledgement comes at a time when it’s at the pinnacle of his career. This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a testament to the collaborative spirit that drives our industry. Receiving this award is like a crowning glory.” India Cargo Awards are the country’s topmost awards which helps create a platform to recognise and honor heroes of logistics and air cargo industry. Chief Guest Unmesh Sharad Wagh, Chairman, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and Guest of Honour P K Rout, Deputy DG Shipping, Ministry of Shipping, GoI presented the award.

IndoSpace announced their plans to develop two major logistic parks in Karnataka with an estimated investment of Rs. 580 Crore. Spanning over an anticipated 75 Acres, these facilities will support industries such as automobiles, engineering, electronics, and third-party logistics (3PL). Additionally, this initiative is part of the 3,000 INR-Crore commitment outlined in an MoU signed between IndoSpace and the Govt of Karnataka in 2022. The first project named IndoSpace Nelamangala II, involves an estimated investment of 240 INR-Crore. This hub spans approximately 35 Acres along the Bengaluru-Mumbai highway (NH48).  It also aims to boost the region’s industrial capabilities by offering top-tier facilities for various sectors. IndoSpace announced its plans to develop two major logistic parks in Karnataka with an estimated investment of 580 INR-Crore, said reports. Spanning over an anticipated 75 Acres, these facilities will support industries such as automobiles, engineering, electronics, and third-party logistics (3PL). Additionally, this initiative is part of the 3,000 INR-Crore commitment outlined in an MoU signed between IndoSpace and the Govt of Karnataka in 2022. The first project named IndoSpace Nelamangala II, involves an estimated investment of 240 INR-Crore. This hub spans approximately 35 Acres along the Bengaluru-Mumbai Highway (NH48).  It also aims to boost the region’s industrial capabilities by offering top-tier facilities for various sectors. The second hub, IndoSpace Narasapura II, entails an estimated investment of 340 INR-Crore. It covers approximately 40 Acres of land parcel. This facility, located off Old Madras Road (NH 75), is close to major industrial hubs such as Vemgal, Malur, and Hoskote. Moreover, the park will provide cutting-edge infrastructure to meet the needs of diverse manufacturers, the report adds.

Satish Lakkaraju, CEO, NexGen Logistics, Garudavega says, “The Indian air cargo industry is going through a huge number of changes and rapid technological evolvements and innovations. Given the global disruptions that are happening currently, what customers are looking at is specifically transparency, visibility, agility, and up to date in terms of how they can plan their shipments. I think in the coming years, India would emerge as one of the leading hubs, more so with the disruptions happening in the neighboring parts of our countries. India’s role, not only in terms of political stability, but also cargo stability, are vital and critical because essential commodities, transportation to the other parts of the world, are very key for the basic survival. I think it’s time for India to step in. Given that we have many Indian carriers expanding rapidly and creating belly capacity to far -off destinations, the role of India is critical and important at all stages.”

Astral Aviation Limited announced the launch of its inaugural flight from the People’s Republic of China. This flight departing from Guangzhou to Nairobi with an onward connection to Maputo, the capital of the Republic of Mozambique, marks a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion into the Asian market. The new direct flight between China and the African continent reflects Astral Aviation’s commitment to strengthening trade and logistics links between Asia and Africa. As a pivotal hub in southern China, Guangzhou serves as a vital gateway for Chinese goods, ranging from electronics to e-commerce. Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO of Astral Aviation, expressed his enthusiasm for the new route, “We are thrilled to commence our operations in China with this new service from Guangzhou. This route enhances connectivity between Asia and Africa and supports the increasing demand for reliable cargo transportation, facilitating the flow of essential goods and contributing to economic growth in both regions. We are grateful to our launch customer, Air Charter Service Hong Kong, The @Guangdong Airport Authority Co. Ltd and our China GSA, IGS Air. The Guangzhou service is strategically designed to meet the rising needs of importers and exporters by providing a reliable and efficient air cargo solution. Astral Aviation’s state-of-the-art Boeing 767 Freighter aircraft ensures the safe and timely delivery of various goods, including perishable items, industrial products, and high-tech equipment. This new route is part of Astral Aviation’s broader expansion strategy, which aims to enhance its global reach and offer unparalleled service to its clients. The company plans to introduce additional routes shortly, further bridging the gap between key markets across Asia and Africa.”

Vandana Singh, Director, Global Key Account Management (Asia Pacific) Saudia Cargo was honoured as ‘Cargo Woman of the Year’ at the recently concluded India Cargo Awards 2024 in Mumbai. The award was presented by the Chief Guest, Unmesh Sharad Wagh, Chairman, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), and P K Raut, Deputy Director General- Shipping, Ministry of Shipping, Government of India, who was the Guest of Honour at the event. She said, “I have been following publications of DDP Group publications actively and I’m very proud to be associated with them. Congratulations to the DDP Group for organizing the fantabulous event. I do see the air cargo industry growing by leaps and bounds. We have promised to grow to 10 .3 million cargo tons within the next five years, but I see that happening in the next three years.”

Exciting news for the air cargo industry experts. Registrations are now open for the upcoming The Air Cargo Agents Association of India’s (ACAAI) 48th Annual Convention set to be held in Baku from 5 December, 2024 till 8 December, 2024 with the theme ‘Wings of Innovation: Charting New Paths in Logistics.’ Register Now!

PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) is all set to organise the 10th edition of Global Aviation and Air Cargo Summit on 4 September, 2024 focusing on shaping up a new futuristic aviation ecosystem. The event will focus on many topics including India becoming transshipment hub, innovation and tech integration, regulatory compliances and customs, freight forwarding and capacity building, MRO, future ready airports etc.  The event is expected to have air cargo and aviation experts from across the country.