J&K rolls out new logistics policy for transport infrastructure

The Jammu and Kashmir state administration has recently introduced the Logistics Policy 2023, which aims to establish world-class infrastructure for the transport sector and bolster the logistics industry in the region. The policy emphasizes the need to build a strong logistics infrastructure comprising logistics parks, transport yards, warehouses, and controlled atmosphere stores. Its main objectives are to improve key logistics metrics, including the quality of logistics infrastructure, service providers, and regulatory processes. It also aims to enhance the operating environment, ease of arranging logistics at competitive rates, timeliness of cargo delivery, safety and security of cargo movement, and ease of track and trace.

To achieve these objectives, the administration plans to introduce various measures to enable barrier-free movement, including GPS-based tolling for distance-linked toll collection, zero waiting time, and digital clearances at interstate crossings and customs checkpoints. The policy aims to increase the daily average distance travelled by goods vehicles from 250 km to 500 km. Moreover, it targets a logistics cost reduction of at least 50% from current levels over the next five years.

The policy will also focus on identifying critical problems and bottlenecks affecting the effectiveness of logistics in Jammu and Kashmir. The administration intends to prioritize decision-making in this area while regularly examining ways to increase ground, air, and inland waterway connectivity across the region. Public-private partnerships will be encouraged in the construction of modern logistics facilities, including storage and handling facilities at strategic nodes, to improve logistics efficiency in focus sectors like pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, agriculture, and dairy products.

The policy also promotes the development of air cargo terminals and airfreight stations to boost air cargo. E-commerce hubs in high-movement zones closer to demand locations and around the periphery of cities will be developed to address the needs of the e-commerce sector and prevent traffic congestion in cities.

NBM Media

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