The State Government of Paraná has been investing in a series of structural improvements to increase the capacity for shipping goods abroad. Among the state's commitments to strengthen its economy is the expansion of its ports and railways, two measures that should directly impact road freight transport (TRC)
As Luiz Gustavo Nery explains, Director of Container Transport and Ports of the Union of Cargo Transport Companies in Paraná (SETCEPAR), the increasing movement in the state's ports has direct effects on the TRC, making the logistics chain more dynamic and requiring greater operational capacity from carriers. With the expansion of port infrastructure and the modernization of terminals, the volume of goods transported follows an upward trend.
According to the expert, this scenario opens new opportunities, but also imposes challenges on carriers. The increase in cargo flow requires a road network in better condition, fleet expansion, availability of qualified drivers, in addition to a more integrated logistics with other modes.
Another obstacle that is expected to arise in the second half of this year and impact the TRC is the delivery of the Moegão, in the Port of Paranaguá. This structure is expected to increase the simultaneous unloading capacity of cargo by train by 65%, that will exceed 550 wagons daily, currently, for 900.
According to Nery, the railway expansion especially affects the flow ofcommoditiesagricultural and large volume loads. According to the expert, it is possible that road transport may lose market share in some operations, reducing the demand for carriers that traditionally serve this segment. "This change does not need to be seen as a threat", but, as an opportunity for adaptation and growth within a new logistical scenario.
The director also comments that road transport can benefit from this transformation by strengthening its integration with the railway, taking on a strategic role in first and last mile transportation, connecting producers and railway terminals more efficiently. In this way, instead of losing space, the TRC can evolve and add even more value to the logistics chain
In accordance with the revitalization strategy, The State Government of Paraná is investing R$6,4 billion for the tripling of the BR-277 highway that connects Curitiba to the Port of Paranaguá, what should improve traffic in the region by up to 20% and reduce travel time, the expenses with maintenance and enhance fuel economy
Still, Nery emphasizes that for the road freight transport sector to keep up with this growth, it is essential that investments extend beyond infrastructure. The qualification of the workforce and the optimization of land logistics processes are essential to ensure competitiveness and the ability to efficiently meet this new demand. Many carriers also face the challenge of expanding their fleets and modernizing their processes to keep up with this evolution.
The need for a more efficient integration with rail transport requires adjustments in the transshipment processes and delivery synchronization, while bureaucracy and environmental and labor regulations add more complexity to the scenario. "Only with innovation and efficiency will it be possible to ensure a more agile and sustainable operational flow to meet the growing demand", account
Finally, the specialist claims that another positive impact expected with the tripling of the road, it is the increase in road safety, since the new infrastructure should reduce the risk of accidents and provide better working conditions for drivers. A more efficient highway makes Paraná an even more attractive destination for new investments, driving the transportation sector and the region's economy, finalizes Nery
