In a notable development, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) intends to replace over 6,500 trucks currently in operation within and around the port with electric vehicles as part of its ‘Zero Emission Trucking’ strategy, according to officials.
The transition to ZET will occur gradually over the next five years, with the initial phase involving the conversion of over 15 trucks utilized in Inter Terminal Rail Operations to electric power within six months, stated JNPA Chairman, Unmesh S Wagh.
Subsequently, the plan is to electrify over 400 diesel-powered trucks engaged in terminal operations for vessels and yard activities within the next couple of years.
The final phase aims to convert more than 6,500 trucks involved in container movements between Container Freight Stations and terminals, including those at the Centralized Parking Plaza, to electric operation within the next 3-5 years, assured Wagh.
Currently, a significant portion of the trucks operating within the expansive JNPA premises rely on diesel, leading to substantial emissions and environmental pollution.
Acknowledging the pivotal importance of transitioning truck activities to zero emissions, particularly within port zones, JNPA has initiated an ambitious endeavor to transition its truck fleet from diesel to electric power.
“Our adoption of ZET aligns with our vision for achieving a fully electrified port, consistent with national sustainability goals outlined in initiatives like the Harit Sagar guidelines and MIV 2030,” explained Wagh.
Established 35 years ago, JNPA is India’s premier container handling port, handling approximately 50 percent of the country’s total container cargo volumes, as per officials.
Currently ranked 26th globally among the top 100 container ports worldwide, JNPA maintains connectivity with over 200 ports globally.
