Central Railway has launched automobile freight services from the newly designated Igatpuri Goods Shed in Nashik district, introducing a new logistics option for manufacturers in the region. The first shipment was commissioned by Transport Corporation of India Ltd and involved the movement of 100 vehicles using 25 New Modified Goods (NMG) wagons, which are purpose-built for carrying cars safely over long distances.
The consignment is being transported to Nautanwa Goods Terminal in Uttar Pradesh’s Maharajganj district, part of the North Eastern Railway network. Railway officials estimate that each such train movement could bring in revenues of around ₹17.16 lakh, indicating strong potential for rail-based automobile transport. The vehicles originate from the Nashik facility of Mahindra & Mahindra. With Igatpuri now operational for automobile loading, companies in the Nashik industrial corridor are expected to benefit from a more conveniently located dispatch point. This is likely to cut down on transit delays and reduce reliance on road transport for moving vehicles to distant railway hubs.
According to railway authorities, the initiative is part of a broader push to diversify freight operations and capture a larger share of the logistics market. Expanding services to include automobile transport reflects a shift toward offering more comprehensive supply chain solutions. In addition to operational advantages, rail transport offers environmental benefits. Moving vehicles by train instead of road can help lower fuel consumption, ease traffic congestion on highways, and reduce overall emissions.
A Central Railway spokesperson said efforts are ongoing to identify new cargo segments and improve freight capacity, in line with national plans to strengthen infrastructure and streamline logistics networks.
