Cabinet Approves Establishment of Integrated Transport and Logistics Authority (ITLA) for Transport and Logistics

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has granted approval for the establishment of the 'Integrated Transport and Logistics Authority' (ITLA). It will be established as a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), with the primary objective of empowering research, planning, evaluation, monitoring, and impact assessment across the broad fields of transport and logistics.

The establishment of this authority aims to address the long-term challenges associated with the implementation of schemes that are currently scattered across various ministries and agencies related to transport. By promoting better coordination and multimodal integration, it is expected to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and effectiveness of transport infrastructure development in the country.

The key roles and responsibilities of ITLA will include the following points:

1. National Apex Body: It will serve as the supreme body for integrated transport and logistics planning, research, project evaluation, monitoring, policy support, and data analysis. 2. National Transport Master Plan: ITLA will prepare a comprehensive Master Plan for a period of ten years or more, covering roads, railways, ports, shipping, civil aviation, inland waterways, coastal shipping, urban mobility, and logistics arrangements. 3. Integrated Planning Framework: It will evaluate the annual and short-term regional plans (approximately 5 years) of transport ministries to ensure they remain aligned with the National Transport Master Plan. 4. Technical Evaluation and Monitoring: The authority will conduct technical evaluations and monitor the implementation of infrastructure projects of the Government of India with a cost of 500 crore rupees or more. However, financial evaluations will continue through the existing mechanism. 5. National Transport Data Repository (NTDR): ITLA will create an integrated data repository by collecting data from various sources such as FASTag, GSTN e-way bills, vehicles, GPS-based systems, and urban traffic management systems, which will be used for planning and impact assessment.

Additionally, ITLA will assist in reviewing and updating the National Logistics Policy (2022). Furthermore, it will promote capacity development, training, skill development, and research and innovation in the logistics sector.

According to the government, the establishment of ITLA will be crucial in realizing India's 'Vision 2047,' leading to improved infrastructure efficiency, reduction in logistics costs, and an increase in India's global competitiveness.