DFCCIL Revolutionizes Milk Transport: Millennium Trains Between New Palanpur and Palwal Slash Running Time by 37%

New Delhi, August 10, 2023 – The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) has emerged as a game-changing conduit for milk transport, drastically reducing the transit time of Millennium (Milk) trains between New Palanpur and Palwal by an impressive 37%. The efficient and cost-effective movement of essential dairy products underscores the transformative impact of DFCCIL’s Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) on India’s milk supply chain.

Serving as a vital link for fulfilling a substantial portion of Delhi National Capital Region’s (NCR) milk demand, the Palanpur area in Gujarat contributes approximately 35 lakh liters of milk daily through Banas & Mehsana dairies. Indian Railways plays a pivotal role in transporting this essential commodity, employing Rail Milk tanks in a dedicated circuit between Palanpur in Gujarat and the Delhi NCR region.

With the operationalization of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor, the transportation of milk tank wagons has witnessed a remarkable improvement in speed. The reduced transit time of Millennium (Milk) trains for Banas Dairy from DFC New Palanpur station in Gujarat to Palwal in Haryana (covering a distance of about 855 km) now stands at 14.49 hours, down from the previous 23.29 hours on the traditional Indian Railways alignment. This substantial reduction of 37.23% was achieved in the month of July 2023.

Under this enhanced operational framework, Milk trains commence their journey from New Palanpur on the WDFC and seamlessly transition to the Indian Railways alignment before reaching their final destination at Hind Terminals Multi Modal Logistics Park in Palwal. The shorter transit time is of particular significance for perishable goods like milk, reaffirming the WDFC’s stature as a cost-effective and efficient mode of transportation for dairy products.

The ongoing progress of the Dedicated Freight Corridor is a testament to DFCCIL’s commitment to enhancing India’s freight network. Currently, 77.2% (approximately 2196 km) of the DFC has been commissioned, with freight trains already operational on these sections. The construction of the remaining segments is well underway, with a targeted commissioning within the next year.

Impressively, the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor witnesses an average of 135 trains operating daily, while the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor sees 80 trains in action each day, collectively clocking an impressive 230 million Gross Tonne Kilometers (GTKMs) per day. On May 26, 2023, DFCCIL achieved a significant milestone by running a cumulative one lakh trains on its alignment, further solidifying its position as a transformative force in India’s freight transportation landscape.