In a landmark move to revolutionize freight transportation in India, DP World, Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), and Nevomo have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the deployment of cutting-edge autonomous magnetic rail freight systems. This ambitious collaboration seeks to transform cargo movement within Indian port ecosystems by introducing Nevomo’s proprietary MagRail technology—a next-generation transport solution that blends magnetic levitation with existing rail infrastructure.

A Strategic Partnership for a Smarter Freight Future

The tripartite agreement marks a significant step towards future-proofing India’s logistics infrastructure. The MoU signifies the mutual intent of the three parties to conduct feasibility studies, examine pilot programs, and share technical knowledge to evaluate how MagRail can be integrated into the Indian freight ecosystem—starting at one of the country’s major ports.

By combining DP World’s global expertise in logistics and terminal operations, Deendayal Port Authority’s strategic role in port development, and Nevomo’s engineering innovation in magnetic transportation, the initiative aspires to deliver more efficient, sustainable, and high-capacity cargo movement.

MagRail Technology: The Future of Freight

At the heart of this collaboration is Nevomo’s MagRail technology, a hybrid system designed to upgrade conventional rail lines with magnetic propulsion and levitation capabilities. Unlike traditional high-speed maglev systems that require entirely new infrastructure, MagRail can be retrofitted onto existing railway tracks, making it a cost-effective and scalable solution.

Key features of the MagRail system include:

  • Autonomous vehicle operation

  • Electromagnetic propulsion and braking

  • Reduced energy consumption and friction

  • Increased speed and efficiency

  • Zero direct emissions

MagRail supports dual operations, meaning it can accommodate both conventional trains and magnetically levitated vehicles, making it highly adaptable for phased implementation.

Pilot Project in Gujarat: A First for India

As a part of this collaborative vision, a 750-meter pilot project is set to be launched at Deendayal Port in Kandla, Gujarat. This pilot will serve as a live testbed to demonstrate the capabilities and operational feasibility of MagRail technology in an Indian port environment.

The project will aim to validate:

  • The viability of autonomous magnetic rail freight movement in real-world port conditions

  • Integration with existing port logistics and container handling operations

  • Scalability for future expansion across India’s port network

  • Safety, operational efficiency, and cost-performance benefits

If successful, this pilot could become the foundation for a nationwide transformation in freight logistics—reducing reliance on diesel locomotives, minimizing congestion, and boosting India’s supply chain resilience.