Hupac has launched a thrice-weekly direct container service between Hannover and Novara. This is an 'evolution' of its Hamburg/Hannover – Busto shuttle, which continues to run as a Hamburg – Busto service. Hupac said the expansion of its 4 m cleared network was in response to the growing market requirements for P400 semitrailer transport between northern Europe and Italy.
RZD Logistics plans to launch a regular container service between Samara and Beijing during February to support exports from Russia to China. A test train on the route carried containerised flour.
Jefo Logistique’s Transbordement St-Hyacinthe division has received Canadian National Railway accreditation to receive 100-wagon trains. ’We are the only private company in Québec to offer a capacity of 100 train units, in or out’, said Jean Fontaine, Jefo Logistique CEO. A C$3m programme is underway to increase capacity to handle 225-wagon trains.
BNSF Logistics has joined the Blockchain in Transport Alliance.
Managing Director of Germany’s Allianz Pro Schiene, Dirk Flege, has called on the government to issue a timetable for clearance of the network for 740 m trains. ‘Now that the federal transport ministry has finalised its assessment, the measures should be quickly funded and implemented’, he said. ‘The measures will greatly benefit the economy and the environment, and are not difficult to implement. It often only involves moving signals and extending passing loops.'