Analytical Study on Indian Coastal Shipping with Reference to Container Trade

Abstract

India currently has a modest level of container penetration. Approximately 54% of all general cargo that can be transported in containers is actually containerized and exported, which is lower than the average global rate of 80%. Although shipping in containers is more efficient, a sizable portion of domestic general freight is still handled in bulk. However, in the upcoming decades or years, this could drastically change. Continuous GDP growth will raise the volume of containerized imports, while rising industrial production will raise the volume of containerized exports. A multimodal/intermodal transport system was created as a result of the containerization of maritime transport and the merging of maritime and land transport modes. The intermodal transport chains and organizations must use a telecommunications system in order to function. This study will look into two separate but connected research streams in order to gain a wider understanding of coastal shipping concerns and to study the Indian instance in this broader perspective. In contrast to road transportation, coastal shipping can only be used as a link in a multimodal transportation network. The complete multimodal/intermodal chain, including the land legs, must be functional and economical for coastal shipping to be commercially viable. In order to create a successful, multi-modal transport system that can serve present and future business needs, achieve modal balance, and reduce carbon emissions, India should regard coastal shipping as an intrinsic part of its transportation policy.