Cyclone Remal, classified as a very severe cyclonic storm by the meteorological department, made landfall along the coasts of Bengal and Bangladesh on May 26, causing significant disruptions to sea and air cargo operations in the region. With wind speeds ranging from 110 km/h to 120 km/h and gusts up to 135 km/h, along with heavy rainfall, the cyclone necessitated extensive safety measures and operational halts at major ports and airports.
Chittagong Port, a critical maritime trade hub in Bangladesh, experienced a complete shutdown due to Cyclone Remal. The Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) issued 'Alert No. 4' – the highest level – suspending all port activities to ensure the safety of ships and personnel. Consequently, 68 commercial vessels were moved to the deep sea to avoid damage from the cyclone’s strong winds and high waves. By Saturday night, 49 bulk carriers had vacated the outer anchorage, halting unloading operations. By Sunday morning, an additional 19 commercial vessels moored at the jetty were pushed into the deep sea. The CPA took measures to secure all cranes, cargo, and container equipment, deploying extra security personnel and medical support. All inland vessels were brought to safe shelters within the inner harbor. A planning meeting was scheduled to assess and implement recovery operations following the cyclone.
Kolkata Port also faced significant disruptions due to Cyclone Remal. All cargo and container handling activities were suspended for 12 hours as a precaution against the cyclone’s severe conditions, temporarily halting the flow of goods.
The cyclone's impact extended to air cargo operations, particularly at Kolkata Airport. The airport suspended operations for 21 hours, leading to the cancellation of 394 flights, including both passenger and cargo flights. This suspension affected the timely delivery of goods and caused logistical challenges for businesses relying on air freight.
Both India and Bangladesh undertook extensive emergency measures to mitigate Remal’s impact on logistics and safety. Over one lakh residents from low-lying coastal zones were evacuated to safer areas. The Indian Coast Guard and Navy broadcast alerts and deployed ships equipped with disaster relief and medical supplies. The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) suspended all river transport to prevent accidents, affecting inland cargo movement.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Bangladesh’s Met Office issued high-level danger signals, warning of potential damage due to high wind speeds and heavy rainfall. These warnings prompted the suspension of port and airport operations, significantly affecting cargo logistics.
Ecom Express Limited, India’s sole pure-play B2C e-commerce logistics provider as of the Financial Year 2024, has introduced a new brand identity, underscoring its commitment to customer-centricity. This rebranding reflects a focus on addressing specific customer needs, prioritising customer-facing metrics, and integrating innovative technology across its nationwide express logistics network. The goal is to enhance speed, agility, and network reach, ensuring a customer-focused approach. The rebranding includes a dynamic logo and a refreshed visual identity, symbolising Ecom Express’s pursuit of excellence. The new logo features a forward-moving arrow within a square, representing the company’s dedication to delivery. The letter "E" in the logo stands for Expression, Innovation, and Progress, while the bold magenta colour signifies bravery, self-expression, and strength. This vibrant magenta reintroduction reflects Ecom Express's renewed commitment to customers, partners, and team members, as the company aims to simplify and democratise logistics for all. Ajay Chitkara, CEO and MD of Ecom Express, elaborated on the transformation, stating, “Our refreshed brand identity reaffirms our customer-first approach as we continue to integrate technology and innovation to provide reliable, high-speed services with the widest network reach. This transformation also underscores our commitment to our employees and delivery partners, who are essential to our business.” The new logo embodies Ecom Express’s dedication to its core values, focusing on customer welfare and fostering a diverse, inclusive environment. This rebranding signifies a promise to redefine logistics through advanced technology, making life easier for all types of customers.
The Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI) held its 6th EC Meeting for the term 2021-23 on May 27 and 28 in Bengaluru. The meeting was attended by the Office Bearers and 28 Member Association representative of FFFAI from across the country, there were many issues discussed and updates provided concerning customs, CBLR, EDI, Service Tax/GST, logistics, air cargo, sea cargo, skill development,importance of social media which FFFAI has expanded recently, technology developments, etc. The special focus of the 6th EC meeting was the updates on forthcoming 24th Biennial Convention of FFFAI to be held from August 12 to 14, 2022 in Chennai with the theme LOGISTICS RESHAPE, EMBRACE AND SURGE IN THE DIGITAL ERA. At this EC meeting, FFFAI also implemented Digital Learning platform for members and next generation for e-learning. It has been decided that FFFAI would initiate FIATA eFBL here in India to benefit the trade, which empowers customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers. In addition, updates on the recently held FIATA HQ Meet was also provided by the concerned members of FFFAI. FFFAI members present at this EC meeting stressed upon enhancing productivity on ICEGATE for trade facilitation and Ease of Doing Business. The FFFAI members also urged for creating a dedicated portal for LSP integration. As regard to skill development initiatives, IIFF’s (training arm of FFFAI) past and forthcoming training programmes (both online and classroom/physical) for the entire logistics industry were presented at the EC meeting. In addition, FFFAI’s various initiatives on capacity building through technology/IT also discussed withadequate importance. Recent activities of FFFAI Women’s Wing including organising interactive meetings with Government of India officials and industry experts were highlighted at this meeting which drew huge appreciation from the members. The members committed to expand the activities of the Women’s Wing in all the 28 member association locations to empower/encourage the women logistics practitioners. At this EC meeting FFFAI has signed an MoU with the National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE) with an objective of skilling the aspiring candidates looking for opportunities in the logistics sector. Notably, a special session was organised at this 6th EC Meeting where N Sivasailam, former Special Secretary (Logistics), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India was present to address the FFFAI members and highlight the recent initiatives of the government in strengthening the logistics infrastructure, thereby leading in increase of international trade through multimodal connectivity and faster cargo clearance. He projected the ambitious growth potential of the logistics industry in India with a strong collaboration between government and industry people. Also speaking on the occasion was Bani Bhattacharya, IRS, who interacted with members of FFFAI on various initiatives of CBIC for the trade facilitation without human intervention. FFFAI Chairman Shankar Shinde thanked all the 28 associations for their support and appreciated the contribution of CBIC/DG systems trade facilitation measures. FFFAI Member Associations are: 1. Ahmedabad Custom Brokers' Association2. Aurangabad Customs House Agents Association3. Association of Custom House Agents Thiruvanthapuram4. Bangalore Custom House Agents Association5. Brihnamumbai Custom Brokers Association6. Calcutta Customs House Agents Association7. Chennai Customs House Agents Association8. Cochin Customs Brokers' Association9. Coimbatore Customs House and Steamer Agents Association10. Custom Brokers Association Hyderabad11. Delhi Customs Brokers Association12. Goa Custom Brokers Association13.Indore Customs House Agents Association14. The Kakinada Customs Brokers Association15. Kandla Custom Brokers Association16. Kanpur Customs Brokers Association17. Ludhiana Customs House Agents Association18. Mangalore Customs House Agents Association19. Mundra Customs Brokers Association20. Nagpur Customs House Agents Association21. Nashik Customs House Agents Association22. Nadia Custom Brokers Association23. Pipavav Custom Brokers Association24. Pune Customs House Agents Association25. Rajasthan Customs House Agents Association26.Tuticorin Custom Brokers Association27.Visakhapatnam Cusotms Brokers' Association28.West Bengal Custom House Agents Society FFFAI welcomes Women in Logistics/Youth in Logistics to participate on FFFAI forums and also invites membership application form logistics service providers in industry as this is a big national and international forum to network.
Building a visionary company requires one percent vision and 99 percent alignment. This analogy resonates deeply when we compare the process of building a company to conducting a symphony orchestra. Just as a conductor leads musicians to create a harmonious masterpiece, a successful business and its management fosters alignment among team members to achieve extraordinary success. In the business world, this vision translates into a clear understanding of where the company wants to go and what it aspires to achieve. The one percent of vision acts as the guiding force that sets the stage for greatness. However, a conductor alone cannot create a symphony. The true magic lies in the collective effort of the musicians, each playing their part to perfection. Similarly, in a visionary company, alignment becomes paramount. Every team member needs to be facing in the right direction, equipped with the right skills, and focused on delivering the right results at the right time. By fostering alignment, harnessing the diverse talents within the team, and continuously fine-tuning performance, savvy teams and visionary leaders carry the potential to transform their companies into harmonious and successful organisations that resonate with greatness. Embracing the power of alignment, inspiring teams with a clear vision, and actively cultivating an environment where every member can contribute their unique talents, RE Rogers India has over the years formed an indispensable pillar of business triumph. Most recently, the company orchestrated a symphony of success handling over 300 events in the fiscal year 2023. Four of these were mammoth events taking place in four different cities at around the same time frame. And these were not merely gatherings, they were milestones. The four gigantic events (CPHI and PMEC 2023 – 28 to 30 November at India Expo Centre, Noida; ENGIMACH 2023 – 6 to 10 December at Helipad Exhibition Centre, Gandhinagar, Gujarat; EXCON 2023 – 12 to 16 December at Bangalore International Exhibition Centre, Bengaluru; PLASTIVISION 2023 – 7 to 11 December at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai) entailed approximately 650 on-ground manpower, 4300 packages, 370 equipment display, and 3600 vehicles. The symphony of greatness bubbled up in RE Rogers India's operational procedures and functions, and the teams and management leadership soared to create a masterpiece of lasting success as always. "To our heroes who faced the challenges head-on in handling their jobs with total finesse, and to our valuable customers who trusted us blindly during our busiest period pan-India: A HUGE THANK YOU!," the RE Rogers India team was quoted expressing in a LinkedIn post. As the demand for large-scale events and exhibitions continues to rise, the need for comprehensive and reliable exhibition logistics services has never been more critical. In India, where the exhibition industry thrives, one name stands out among the rest — RE Rogers India — who have been delivering unparalleled logistical solutions tailored to the unique demands of the exhibition sector. RE Rogers India have years of first-hand, specialist experience in handling every aspect of exhibitions, ranging from freight forwarding, transportation, customs formalities, secure handling of materials, on-time delivery and site assistance and supervision. Remember that logistics is not just about getting your materials from point A to point B; it’s about ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for everyone involved in your exhibition, from exhibitors to attendees. So, if you partner with RE Rogers India, you’re not just hiring a logistics company; you’re bringing a dedicated and reliable team on board to ensure your exhibition materials reach their destination in perfect condition and on time. Having served a variety of clients from both the domestic and international arena, the company has developed deep understanding of the unique challenges of delivering time-critical goods in the face of huge crowds, open day pressure, and complex logistical requirements. RE Rogers India fully understands the value of complete exhibition sets in terms of the clients’ reputation and market standing, ranging from trade show booths, exhibits, and other equipment, which include wooden panels, steel frames, prefabricated designs, bunk houses, E-houses, printed material, lights, electronic items and other display resources. The company therefore takes utmost care to pay close attention to critical things like packing, loading, storing, lifting, etc. so as to eliminate any chance of damage. Due diligence is also exercised in choosing optimum and fastest mode of transport to enable the materials to reach the venue well in time, so as to facilitate timely set-up by the clients team at the venue. Post-exhibition, pick-up and delivery back to the shipper is also handled. With RE Rogers India as your esteemed logistics partner, you can focus on wowing your audience and making the most of your exhibition experience. Under the astute leadership of Ravinder Sethi, RE Rogers India is not just reaching new heights; it is setting successive benchmarks. With the innate ability to see through the intricacies and a commitment to perfection down to the minutest detail, Sethi has steered the company towards a trajectory of unparalleled success. His visionary approach complemented by the team's meticulous attention to excellence have become the driving force behind RE Rogers' ascent in the events and exhibition logistics sector. The collective efforts of Sethi and his entire team continue to sculpt a legacy of precision and excellence in the world of logistics that remains exciting, challenging and rewarding.
A significant milestone has been achieved in the Indo-Bangla railway project with the inauguration of the inaugural freight train connecting Bangladesh's Gangasagar to Tripura's Nischintanpur. This momentous event marks a significant step forward in strengthening the rail connectivity between the two neighboring countries. The new railway connection is set to enhance trade and commerce between India and Bangladesh, providing a more efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation for goods. It will not only boost bilateral trade but also promote economic development in the region by opening up new opportunities for businesses and industries. The Indo-Bangla railway project is part of a broader effort to improve connectivity and foster closer ties between the two nations. It is expected to play a vital role in facilitating the movement of goods and passengers, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of both countries.
Singapore’s Changi Airport is sharpening its focus on pharmaceuticals and e-commerce shipments to navigate constrained cargo capacity until planned expansion in the 2030s. According to Lim Ching Kiat, Executive Vice President of Air Hub and Cargo Development at Changi Airport Group, current facilities face mounting pressure due to growing regional demand, necessitating strategic tenant and cargo type management. E-commerce continues to be a key growth driver for air cargo globally, fueled by major players like Shein, Temu, and TikTok Shop. At the same time, Singapore is solidifying its position as Southeast Asia’s preferred pharmaceutical hub, attracting investments from global biopharma giants such as Thermo Fisher, Sanofi, BioNTech, and MSD. Looking ahead, Changi Airport plans to launch a second logistics park by the 2030s, aiming to increase its annual cargo capacity from 3 million tons to 5.4 million tons. The new free trade zone will further expedite cargo handling and redistribution. In 2024, Changi Airport reported handling 1.99 million tons of airfreight, a 14.6% rise from 2023, driven by robust cross-border e-commerce demand, improved trade routes with China and the U.S., and recovering electronics exports. Top air cargo markets included China, Australia, the U.S., Hong Kong, and India.
trackNOW, a leading Gujarat-based women-led fleet management and advanced telematic tracking solution company has recently raised an extended seed fund of an undisclosed amount. The funding round was led by Yohan Poonawalla, Chairman of the Poonawalla Engineering Group, and Michelle Poonawalla, Managing Director of the Poonawalla Engineering Companies. The company had previously secured seed funding in FY24, led by GI Ventures and BluSmart co-founder Anmol Jaggi, which successfully led the company to accelerate its business growth plans. The latest investment from the Poonawalla Group will enable trackNOW to expand its R&D and boost operational efficiency, which will further solidify its position in the Indian logistics market. Founded in 2016 by Pooja Khemka and Suyash Khemka, trackNOW has emerged as a leader in delivering cutting-edge solutions to streamline fleet management and tracking processes. Known for its focus on minimising turnaround times and reducing operational costs across various industries, trackNOW has garnered immense recognition for its intelligent, technology-driven innovations. “Investing in promising startups like trackNOW is not just about financial returns,” said Yohan Poonawalla, Chairman of Poonawalla Engineering Group. “It’s about mentoring and empowering young, visionary entrepreneurs by providing them with the resources and support needed to succeed. We believe in the transformative power of innovation and are committed to fostering an environment where groundbreaking ideas can flourish.” Michelle Poonawalla, Managing Director of the Poonawalla Engineering Companies, added, “We are thrilled to partner with trackNOW and support their growth journey. This investment reflects our commitment to empowering Indian entrepreneurs. The partnership has the potential to unlock significant value for both trackNOW and the broader Indian economy by driving job creation, enhancing operational efficiencies across sectors, and strengthening India's position in the global logistics market.” Commenting on the investment, Pooja S. Khemka, Co-founder, trackNOW said, “The investment from the Poonawalla Group is a significant endorsement of our vision and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. We are honored to receive the support of such a respected group. This partnership will not only provide us with the capital required to scale operations but also invaluable mentorship and industry expertise.”
Shadowfax, a leading player in India’s logistics sector, has acquired CriticaLog, a specialised firm delivering critical logistics solutions, for an undisclosed amount. This strategic acquisition aims to bolster Shadowfax’s capabilities by offering comprehensive and customisable delivery services for high-value items such as electronics, automobile spares, jewelry, and pharmaceuticals. With over 400 clients, including multinational corporations, CriticaLog's expertise will integrate into Shadowfax’s expansive network that covers 2,500 cities and 18,000 pin codes across India. This merger is poised to enhance Shadowfax’s sector-wide reach by blending bespoke logistics solutions with its existing offerings. Shadowfax’s services already include quality check-based reverse logistics, same-day delivery under its "Prime" initiative, quick commerce 10-minute delivery, and hand-to-hand doorstep exchanges. The company recorded significant growth last fiscal year, with operational revenue rising to ₹1,884.8 crore from ₹1,415 crore in FY23, as per data intelligence platform TheKredible. By uniting its expansive infrastructure with CriticaLog’s high-value delivery expertise, Shadowfax aims to set new benchmarks in the logistics industry while meeting the nuanced demands of both e-commerce and D2C clients.
A workshop on “Vision and Investment Potential in the Port System, Maritime Transport, and Logistics in India” was hosted in collaboration with Vietnam National Shipping Lines (VIMC) and the Vietnamese Embassy in India. The event highlighted opportunities for VIMC to expand its market share in India while fostering stronger economic ties between the two nations. With India’s foreign trade turnover at $776 billion in 2023 and projected to reach $2,000 billion by 2030, the logistics sector presents significant growth potential. VIMC sees this as a chance to create efficient supply chains, connecting Vietnam directly to India’s 1.4 billion consumers. Le Quang Trung, VIMC’s Deputy General Director, emphasised the organisation's vision to build a comprehensive logistics ecosystem by strengthening maritime routes and investing in port infrastructure with Indian partners. VIMC aims to enhance trade between the countries by developing new shipping routes and establishing “Vietnam House” logistics facilities in India to offer integrated storage, delivery, and freight transport services. The workshop also revisited VIMC’s direct container lines connecting Cua Lo, Kolkata, and Hai Phong in 2021-2022, which reduced transit times and stabilised supply chains. With a target of $20 billion in bilateral trade, the collaboration marks a step toward achieving long-term maritime and logistics synergies.
