Gateway Distriparks Expands into Central India with ₹150 Crore ICD Near Indore
Summary
Gateway Distriparks Limited has acquired roughly 25 acres near the Pithampur industrial area to build an Inland Container Depot (ICD) close to Indore — its strategic push into Central India. The facility has received in-principle approval from Indian Railways and will include two rail sidings and integrated logistics infrastructure. Planned annual capacity is about 120,000 TEUs with an estimated investment of ₹150 crore.
The ICD aims to strengthen rail-based multimodal logistics for EXIM and domestic cargo, reduce reliance on long-distance port-linked hubs, cut transit times and trucking dependence, and improve first-mile connectivity for manufacturers in Madhya Pradesh’s Pithampur belt (automotive, engineering, pharmaceutical and general manufacturing). The project aligns with national efforts to shift freight to rail, increase containerisation and lower carbon intensity in supply chains.
Key Points
- Gateway Distriparks acquired ~25 acres near Pithampur to develop an ICD serving Central India.
- Project has in-principle approval from Indian Railways and will have two rail sidings with integrated logistics support.
- Planned capacity: ~120,000 TEUs per year; estimated investment: ₹150 crore.
- ICD will serve both export-import (EXIM) and domestic cargo, improving predictability and lowering logistics costs by shifting containers to rail.
- Close proximity to the Pithampur industrial belt should streamline first-mile connectivity for automotive, engineering, pharma and other manufacturers.
- Supports the Indian government’s push for rail-led freight movement, higher containerisation and more sustainable supply chains.
- Expected outcome: reduced port congestion, faster container evacuation, better integration with major trade corridors.
Why should I read this?
Short answer: if you move goods, make things in Central India or plan logistics there, this matters. Gateway’s ICD could cut your trucking time, give steadier transit schedules and shave costs. We skimmed the jargon and pulled out the bits that affect shipments, lead times and costs — you’re welcome.
Author style
Punchy: This is more than another warehouse announcement — it’s a stepping stone for rail-first logistics in a manufacturing-heavy region. For exporters and supply-chain planners around Indore and Madhya Pradesh, the detail is worth a close read because it changes how containers will flow out of Central India.
Context and relevance
The ICD comes at a time when India is actively encouraging rail-led freight to reduce logistics costs and emissions. Central India has often been handicapped by long road hauls to coastal ports; a local ICD of this scale (120,000 TEU capacity) should boost containerisation rates, improve door-to-port timelines and make manufacturers more competitive. It also complements ongoing investments in freight corridors and multimodal connectivity across the country.