With over 700 companies eagerly on board, this
government-backed initiative is poised to reshape the logistics landscape.An
official involved in the project unveiled the details, stating, “A track and
trace app is being developed wherein we will be able to track the movement of
trucks, trains, and air couriers. This will empower private companies to
monitor their shipments efficiently.â€A
diverse array of companies engaged in courier services, logistics, shipping,
and manufacturing have eagerly embraced this innovative tracking solution.
Spearheaded by the National Industrial Corridor
Development Corporation (NICDC), the app promises to revolutionize cargo
monitoring.The app operates on a specific tracking code system, providing an
unparalleled level of visibility into the movement of consignments. This
groundbreaking technology not only enhances the reliability of truck movements
but also facilitates real-time visibility of vehicles.
India, which already boasts a Unified Logistics
Interface Platform (ULIP) under the National Logistics Policy, is taking a
giant leap forward by integrating 35 digital systems from various ministries,
including goods and services tax. The increased visibility afforded by tracking
mechanisms contributes to a reduction in lead time for the overall
import-export cycle, resulting in lower inventory carrying costs and improved
management of empty containers.
In tandem with
this, the government is also actively pursuing the ‘uberisation’ of trucks to
optimize their usage and decrease the movement of empty vehicles. An official explained, “The idea is to locate empty trucks or
containers within a 50 km radius, enhancing logistical efficiency.†A proof of
concept has already been successfully demonstrated, showcasing the potential of
this forward-looking strategy.
The overarching objective is to curtail the movement
of empty trucks and trailers, thereby reducing operational and maintenance
costs. These initiatives are integral to India’s broader plan to bring down
logistics costs to 5-6% of the country’s gross domestic product.