Delhi Metro to launch urban freight services, joins hands with Blue Dart

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has joined hands with logistics provider Blue Dart to introduce an urban freight (cargo) service on its metro network.

This initiative, the first of its kind in the South Asia Pacific region, seeks to revolutionise last-mile delivery solutions by leveraging Metro connectivity, officials said.

Under this partnership, Blue Dart will utilise DMRC’s metro network during non-peak hours to transport cargo, significantly cutting down reliance on road transport. The move is expected to ease traffic congestion in the city while reducing vehicular emissions.

“By integrating cargo movement with Metro services, we are optimising our infrastructure for sustainable logistics solutions,” a senior DMRC official said. “This initiative aligns with our broader goal of promoting environmentally friendly urban transport,” the official said.

The DMRC is not alone in its efforts to integrate freight movement within Metro operations. Cities such as Madrid have already launched pilot projects to transport parcels via metro systems, reducing road traffic and pollution. “We are actively engaging with Madrid Metro to exchange best practices and insights on urban freight transportation,” the official added. “Learning from their experience will help us fine-tune our approach to make cargo movement more efficient and seamless,” the official said.

The collaboration aims to enhance first-mile and last-mile connectivity by establishing micro parcel hubs at Metro stations, ensuring a streamlined supply chain across Delhi-NCR.

“This project is about more than just logistics. It’s about shaping the future of urban mobility in a sustainable manner. By reducing dependence on road-based freight transport, we are taking a significant step towards lowering carbon emissions in the city,” the official noted.