Cabinet approves signing and ratifying of Inter-Governmental Agreement on Dry Ports of International Importance

"This is a follow up of the Resolution of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) regarding development of dry ports within member countries of UNESCAP, including India," read a government statement.

The current agreement promotes international recognition of dry ports, facilitates investment in infrastructure, improves operational efficiency of inter modal transport services, establishes guiding principles for development and operation of dry ports and enhances the environmental sustainability of freight transport.

The agreement will help in connectivity and integration of the Asian highway network, the trans-Asian railways network and other modes by working towards development of dry ports.

There is need to promote and develop an international integrated intermodal transport and logistics system in Asia with its neighbouring regions.

The agreement will facilitate and expand international goods transport as a consequence of growing international trade in the region.

The agreement will also lead to strengthening of connectivity and seamless international movement of goods, facilitate increased efficiency and reduce cost of transport and logistics as well as extend reach to inland areas and wider hinterlands.