Apeejay Infra launches two logistics parks

Apeejay Infralogistics, a 50:50 joint venture between the Apeejay Surrendra Group and the UK-based Eredene Capital has launched two logistics parks at Haldia (West Bengal) and Kalinganagar (Orissa), reported The Hindu.

“We've already started commercial operations at both the places, but it will be some more time before all the facilities are in place,” said Karan Paul, chairman, Apeejay Group.

“Haldia logistics park, the bigger of the two and involving an investment of US$45.72 million in phases, will take another couple of years to become fully operational while the one at Kalinganagar, costing $10.68 million, will be ready within a year,” Paul said. “We've so far spent around $12.81 milllion on both the outfits.”

S Das Patnaik, director, said Haldia logistics park, which would be spread over 90 acres, would have a container freight station/inland container depot and dedicated space for such facilities as storage of both domestic and Exim cargo, consolidation/deconsolidation, stuffing/destuffing, Customs clearance, container repair yard, truck terminal and commercial space for retail and business along with the key support services for industrial units located not only in the eastern region but also in the neighbouring countries such as Nepal and Bhutan.

Paul allayed fears about the probable closure of Haldia dock. “The Haldia dock is doing fine and it will continue to do so for many more years to come, benefiting a large number of industries in the eastern region and I'm sure that the steps initiated by the port authorities and the Shipping Ministry will yield,” he said.

The logistics park at Kalinganagar would be different from the one at Haldia as it would cater to the requirements of the upcoming steel plants.

Nikhil Naik, director, Eredene Capital, said the investment with Apeejay Surrendra Group was part of the company's thrust on the infrastructure and port, port services and the logistics sector in India.
(Source:www.cargonewsasia.com)