MAERSK has established the Inland Container Depot (ICD) Madurai in Tamil Nadu as a new acceptance point 93 miles from the Port of Tuticorin, to get closer to customers in southern India.

Tamil Nadu has been an agricultural state and is a leading producer of agricultural produce in India. It is also a leader in textiles and auto parts.

The depot covers an area of about 70 acres and is one of the largest in the country. It is anticipated to serve as a major infrastructural hub for South India, reports Fort Lauderdale's Maritime Executive.

Before importers shipped cargo to Tuticorin Port where it was cleared by customs, de-stuffed and kept at a warehouse. The cargo was then being moved by truck from Tuticorin to its final delivery point in and around Madurai. Exporters had to pick up empty containers at Tuticorin.

With operations at the new ICD, Maersk has cut around 150 kilometres to and from Tuticorin Port. The company says it has effectively brought down the cost of inland logistics for its customers by up to 30 per cent.

The infrastructure offerings at ICD Madurai include 24x7 operations, ample storage including bonded warehousing facilities, faster claim rate of duty drawback & GST refund, and capability to handle air cargo connecting Chennai and Bangalore.

Maersk said it will offer faster cargo clearance in Madurai than Tuticorin, with same day clearance and gate-in at the terminal.