Maruti Suzuki India Limited has achieved a new milestone in sustainable transportation by dispatching 5.18 lakh vehicles through Indian Railways in FY 2024-25. This marks the automaker’s highest-ever annual rail dispatch volume, reinforcing its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and fuel consumption while optimizing logistics efficiency.
Key Highlights Of Maruti Suzuki’s Rail-Based Logistics Expansion
- The company dispatched 5.18 lakh vehicles via Indian Railways, accounting for nearly 25 percent of its total vehicle dispatches in FY 2024-25
- Since FY 2014-15, Maruti Suzuki has cumulatively transported approximately 24 lakh vehicles through railways, reflecting an eightfold increase
- The initiative has helped prevent over 1.8 lakh tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions and saved more than 63 million liters of fuel
- Maruti Suzuki currently operates over 40 flexi-deck rakes, each capable of carrying around 300 vehicles per trip
- The company aims to increase the share of vehicle dispatches via railways to 35 percent by FY 2030-31
Strategic Importance Of Rail-Based Logistics
Maruti Suzuki has been a pioneer in adopting railway logistics, becoming the first Indian automobile manufacturer to obtain an Automobile-Freight-Train-Operator (AFTO) license in 2013. The company leverages rail transport to serve over 600 cities across India through more than 20 logistics hubs, ensuring efficient distribution while minimizing environmental impact.
Environmental Benefits And Sustainability Goals
The shift to railway-based logistics aligns with Maruti Suzuki’s broader sustainability strategy. By reducing reliance on road transport, the company has significantly lowered its carbon footprint, contributing to India’s green mobility goals. The initiative also supports export operations through railway connectivity at ports such as Mundra and Pipavav.
Future Outlook And Industry Impact
- Maruti Suzuki’s continued investment in rail logistics is expected to set new benchmarks for sustainable transportation in the automotive sector
- The company’s long-term vision includes expanding railway dispatch capabilities to further optimize supply chain efficiency
- Industry analysts anticipate that Maruti Suzuki’s model could encourage other automakers to adopt similar eco-friendly logistics strategies
Sources: MSN, Financial Express, The Hindu Business Line, Shillong Times, Rediff Money.
