<h4 data-path-to-node="3"><b data-path-to-node="3" data-index-in-node="0">High-Level Coordination Strategy Between JNPT and Local Administration</b></h4><p data-path-to-node="4"><b data-path-to-node="4" data-index-in-node="0">NASHIK</b> — The development of the proposed Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) at Niphad has taken a major step forward following a strategic coordination meeting held at the Nashik Collectorate between District Collector Ayush Prasad and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) Vice Chairman Ravish Kumar Singh.</p><p data-path-to-node="5">The high-level session focused on accelerating the infrastructure roadmap to transform the Niphad Dry Port into a regional EXIM and domestic distribution engine for Maharashtra. During the meeting, officials clarified that the facility will function not only as a gateway for international Export-Import (EXIM) trade but also as an integrated hub for domestic freight, warehousing, and nationwide supply chain management.</p><blockquote data-path-to-node="6"><p data-path-to-node="6,0"><i data-path-to-node="6,0" data-index-in-node="0">"The proposed Multi-Modal Logistics Park at Niphad, supported by robust multi-modal connectivity and JNPT's active collaboration, will serve as a key driver of Nashik's economic growth. It will position Nashik prominently on India's national logistics and export map,"</i> stated District Collector Ayush Prasad.</p></blockquote><h4 data-path-to-node="8"><b data-path-to-node="8" data-index-in-node="0">Multi-Modal Connectivity Grid</b></h4><p data-path-to-node="9">The strategic value of the Niphad Dry Port is anchored in its comprehensive integration with Western India's primary transport corridors:</p><ul data-path-to-node="10"><li><p data-path-to-node="10,0,0"><b data-path-to-node="10,0,0" data-index-in-node="0">Road Corridors:</b> Direct links to the <b data-path-to-node="10,0,0" data-index-in-node="36">Nashik–Chennai Highway</b>, the <b data-path-to-node="10,0,0" data-index-in-node="64">Nashik Ring Road</b>, and the <b data-path-to-node="10,0,0" data-index-in-node="90">Samruddhi Mahamarg</b> expressways.</p></li><li><p data-path-to-node="10,1,0"><b data-path-to-node="10,1,0" data-index-in-node="0">Aviation &amp; Rail Links:</b> Seamless intermodal connectivity connecting the facility to <b data-path-to-node="10,1,0" data-index-in-node="83">Ozar Airport</b> and the main rail freight network servicing JNPT and Central India.</p></li><li><p data-path-to-node="10,2,0"><b data-path-to-node="10,2,0" data-index-in-node="0">Industrial Synergy:</b> Direct connections to local manufacturing nodes to lower landside transport costs for industrial units.</p></li></ul><h4 data-path-to-node="12"><b data-path-to-node="12" data-index-in-node="0">Agricultural Integration and Storage Infrastructure</b></h4><p data-path-to-node="13">To maximize benefits for regional farmers and agri-exporters, the District Collector proposed linking major local Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs)—specifically <b data-path-to-node="13" data-index-in-node="174">Lasalgaon</b> and <b data-path-to-node="13" data-index-in-node="188">Pimpalgaon Baswant</b>—directly with the dry port's cold-chain and handling infrastructure, with plans to incorporate additional district APMCs in subsequent phases.</p><p data-path-to-node="14">Furthermore, the project blueprints call for integrating the Central Government's <b data-path-to-node="14" data-index-in-node="82">World’s Largest Grain Storage Scheme</b> into the Niphad complex. This integration aims to reinforce the national food supply chain, minimize post-harvest handling losses, and provide direct export access to regional onion, grape, and food-grain traders.</p><h4 data-path-to-node="16"><b data-path-to-node="16" data-index-in-node="0">Simplifying Clearance Processes and Export Promotion</b></h4><p data-path-to-node="17">JNPT Vice Chairman Ravish Kumar Singh confirmed that Nashik’s Economic Development Cell has been directly connected to JNPT’s primary transport control desk in Mumbai to streamline customs clearances and documentation for local exporters.</p><p data-path-to-node="18">JNPT will also participate as a principal partner in the upcoming District Export Promotion Committee meeting scheduled for <b data-path-to-node="18" data-index-in-node="124">August 4, 2026</b>, where specific operational guidelines and private-sector investment frameworks for the MMLP will be finalized.</p>