CARGOCONNECT-MARCH2024 - Flipbook - Page 62
SPECIAL FEATURE : CHEMICAL LOGISTICS
URVISHKUMAR
SOLANKI
Deputy Manager–
Corporate Logistics,
Tata Chemicals
Enhancing supply chain visibility is crucial
for operational efficiency, risk reduction,
and meeting customer demands. Strategies
include implementing advanced tracking
systems like RFID, GPS, and IoT sensors for
real-time monitoring. Data analytics and
integration consolidate information on a
variety of aspects for comprehensive insights
into demand patterns and performance
metrics. This enables enhanced collaboration
with partners that ultimately fosters
transparency and optimisation of operations.
Therefore, it is vital to rely on a partner who
ensures transparency in processes and helps
maximise ROI.
DARSHAN
GHODAWAT
CEO and Managing
Director, AVA Global
Logistics LLP
Navigating the regulatory landscape in
chemical supply chains poses significant
challenges across transportation,
labelling, packaging, and documentation.
Adopting globally harmonised systems for
classification and labelling of chemicals is
crucial for consistency and safety. Packaging
itself presents a critical challenge, as
secure and eco-friendly materials are
necessary to prevent leaks or spills during
transit. Segregation of different classes of
chemicals within shipments is essential to
avoid hazards from package interactions,
while secure stowage prevents movement or
damage during transportation.
62 | CARGOCONNECT MARCH 2024
metrics. This enables enhanced collaboration with partners that ultimately fosters
transparency and optimisation of operations. Therefore, it is vital to rely on a partner
who ensures transparency in processes and helps maximise ROI.”
Complementing Solanki’s views, Darshan gives key insights into their service
prowess, “At AvaGlobal, we have employed cutting-edge tracking technologies,
continuous monitoring systems, and platforms for sharing data. These innovative
measures greatly improve our ability to maintain a clear view of the entire supply
chain process, from initial production to 昀椀nal delivery. With the aid of these
advancements, we are able to closely track the movement of goods in real-time,
closely monitor their status, and e昀케ciently address any potential obstacles before
they impact our operations.”
“To optimise routes, modes, and schedules in order to achieve cost-e昀昀ective
and punctual deliveries, we rely on cutting-edge transportation management
systems and route optimisation software. With the help of these advanced tools,
we are able to meticulously analyse elements such as distance, tra昀케c patterns,
and transportation expenses to identify the most optimal routes and modes of
transportation for each and every shipment. We have also collaborated with
our partners to improve transportation e昀昀ectiveness and visibility to be further
able to e昀昀ectively coordinate logistics processes, exchange relevant information,
and proactively tackle any impediments or obstacles that may arise in transit.”
Going forward, Singh says, the adoption of technology will continue to provide a
competitive advantage, o昀昀ering clear visibility and enhancing the e昀케ciency in goods
movement within supply chain and logistics. “The implementation of Enterprise
Resource Planning (ERP) systems has integrated technology across various systems,
including multi-plant systems, providing real-time tracking details to all stakeholders.”
Talent and Training
Ensuring the e昀昀ective management of chemical logistics requires a workforce
that is properly trained in various aspects. This encompasses training on safety
protocols, regulatory compliance, and emergency response procedures. However,
attracting and retaining skilled professionals within the industry remains an
ongoing challenge. The continual need for a well-trained workforce underscores
the importance of investing in education and professional development to address
the evolving demands of chemical logistics and to meet the industry’s rigorous
standards for safety and compliance.
Adding to the critical areas of work, the ongoing transition to Environment,
Social and Governance (ESG) norms/principles, not just for chemicals but for all
other industries, will take time of about 5-7 years for on-ground implementation.
As a part of this, proper training for all associated stakeholders involved in
chemical logistics should be planned. This will also help on-ground executors
to understand the importance of Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and how it
plays a critical role in avoiding mishaps/accidents.
