DP World, Deendayal Port and Nevomo join hands to Pilot Magnetic Rail Cargo Movement in India

Mumbai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a landmark step toward next-generation logistics and sustainable port operations, DP World, Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), and European deep-tech company Nevomo have signed an agreement to deploy India’s first-ever MagRail Booster system—a breakthrough magnetic propulsion solution enabling self-propelled rail movement of bulk cargo and containers.

The tripartite agreement, formalized during India Maritime Week 2025 in the presence of Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal and H.E. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, will see the installation of a 750-metre MagRail Booster pilot track within the Deendayal Port in Gujarat.

Transforming Port Operations with Magnetic Propulsion

The MagRail Booster pilot project will demonstrate how automated, low-emission cargo movement can be achieved using existing rail infrastructure—without the need for new tracks or locomotives.
By retrofitting magnetic propulsion systems onto existing wagons and rails, the initiative will:

• Automate short-haul cargo transfers within the port

• Reduce diesel dependency and carbon emissions

• Enhance yard efficiency, throughput, and safety

• Minimize disruption and enable low-cost, fast deployment

The pilot aligns with national initiatives such as the PM Gati Shakti Master Plan and the Harit Sagar Green Port Guidelines, marking a major step in India’s transition toward smart, sustainable logistics infrastructure.

Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, IRSME, Chairman, Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), said:

“This partnership marks an important milestone in Deendayal Port’s journey towards technological modernisation and sustainable growth. By introducing MagRail innovation in collaboration with DP World, we are taking a decisive step towards automating cargo movement and setting new standards in operational efficiency.”

Mr. Yuvraj Narayan, Deputy CEO & CFO, DP World, noted:

“This agreement with Deendayal Port Authority and Nevomo marks a pivotal step in reimagining how cargo moves within India’s ports. By deploying MagRail technology, we are showcasing India’s readiness to adopt next-generation logistics that are faster, safer, and more sustainable.”

Mr. Harjinder (Harj) Dhaliwal, Acting CEO, Nevomo, added:

“We are proud to bring MagRail to India – one of the world’s most dynamic logistics markets. This collaboration demonstrates how magnetic systems retrofitted to existing rail infrastructure can significantly improve efficiency and reduce emissions without costly overhauls.”

Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO, Urban Infra Group, commended the initiative, saying:

“The DP World–DPA–Nevomo partnership is a defining moment for India’s port modernization strategy. By embracing MagRail propulsion, India is signaling its intent to lead the world in low-carbon, intelligent logistics solutions. This technology not only enhances cargo efficiency but also sets the stage for smart, green, and globally competitive ports under the Viksit Bharat vision.”

DP World operates across six continents, serving a quarter of India’s EXIM container market with 5 container terminals, 3 free trade warehousing zones, 5 million sq. ft. of logistics space, and 7 inland rail terminals.

Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), formerly Kandla Port, is India’s largest port by cargo volume, handling over 100 MMT annually and retaining its position as the nation’s No.1 port for 14 consecutive years.

Nevomo, headquartered in Europe, is a deep-tech pioneer in sustainable, high-speed rail and magnetic propulsion systems. Its MagRail technology can automate and electrify conventional railways, achieving speeds up to 550 km/h.

The Deendayal MagRail pilot represents more than a technological trial — it’s a bold step toward transforming India’s ports into next-generation logistics hubs that are automated, energy-efficient, and globally benchmarked. If successful, the model could be replicated across major ports nationwide, redefining how India handles freight in the era of decarbonized transport.