UAE firms eye infra, tourism, food processing sectors in Punjab

Vijay C Roy

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Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, November 22

Logistics sector in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir is likely to get a shot in the arm with global port operator DP World conducting a feasibility study for setting up a multi-model logistics park in Pathankot. DP World is among the few companies from the UAE which are working on modalities to expand in the state. Among others are Sharaf Group, Lulu Group and Emaar Group.

“DP World is conducting a feasibility study for setting up a multi-model logistics park in Pathankot. We have shown them requisite land which is in the possession of Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation (PSIEC). The proposed site is ideal for setting up a logistics park as there is a railway line nearby. They have written a letter to the Railways to enquire whether the existing track can bear the load of axle capacity,” said Rajat Aggarwal, CEO, Invest Punjab.

It is learnt that the private player may set up freight terminal, inland container depot (ICD), warehouses and specialised storage solutions with broad gauge railway line and national highway that will encourage inter-modal transfer of containers, including bulk and break-bulk cargo.

The setting up of park will reduce logistics operational costs and boost exports from Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu Kashmir.

Aggarwal said the Sharaf Group, which operates Hind Terminal — a multi model logistics park in Ludhiana — is interested in setting up food processing unit in the state. “They have sought a bogie from the Railways which will be attached to a passenger train running from Ferozepur to Ludhiana. The company intends to process fruits and vegetables procured from farmers on the way. They are also looking at setting up food processing unit in Ludhiana with complete infrastructure, including cold chain,” he added.

Besides this, Dubai-based Emaar Group is planning to set up their base to source finished food products from Punjab-based industry.

Having acquired meat processing unit for Rs 60 crore, Lulu Group is keen on setting up a hypermarket in Punjab.

Aggarwal further said another UAE-based group is planning to connect three takhts of the state, namely the Akal Takht (Amritsar), Sri Kesgarh Sahib (Anandpur Sahib) and Sri Damdama Sahib (Talwandi Sabo) through chopper ride. However, the company will first conduct a feasibility study.

In addition to this, the state is likely to sign an MoU next month for a Rs 56,000-crore project with Virgin Hyperloop One for Chandigarh-Amritsar and Chandigarh-Delhi route for developing high-speed lines. The company will also conduct a feasibility study first.