APM Terminals Pipavav has launched its first double-stack Python block train to ICD Dadri, expanding container rail connectivity between western and northern India. The inaugural service departed Pipavav on 16 September, carrying 338 TEUs over a distance of around 1,200 kilometres. The operation was carried out in collaboration with Maersk India and Container Corporation of India (CONCOR). New service increases container capacity The service uses a double-stack Python configuration, which allows more containers to be transported in a single rail movement. According to APM Terminals Pipavav, the configuration can carry up to four times the volume of its existing weekly import block train. The terminal said this was the first Python rake designed and operated by a port for a single shipping line. The operation involved APM Terminals Pipavav, Maersk India, CONCOR and Indian Railways. Direct access to key freight corridor Pipavav is directly connected to India’s Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC), which provides access to major inland markets in northern India. The new service connects the port with ICD Dadri, a major inland container hub. Dadri is located approximately 1,234 kilometres from Pipavav. The port has rail infrastructure capable of handling up to 22 trains per day. Double-stack Python trains on the corridor can reach around 1.5 kilometres in length and carry approximately 360 TEUs. With 338 TEUs transported on the inaugural service, the train operated close to the stated capacity of the configuration. The new service strengthens Pipavav’s rail offering for containerised cargo moving between the port and northern India. It also provides shippers with an alternative to long-distance road transport for cargo moving to and from the region. The post APM Terminals Pipavav launches first double-stack Python train to Dadri appeared first on Container News .