Kerala, 17th August 2026: In a significant step towards making logistics more inclusive and accessible, DTDC Express Ltd., one of India’s leading homegrown multinational logistics companies, announced the launch of “DTDC Vallam Express”, a waterway-based last–mile delivery service that extends doorstep parcel deliveries to Kerala’s water–bound communities.
The service draws its name and inspiration from Kerala’s iconic Vallam Kali, the traditional snake boat race known for its speed and spirit of teamwork, with “Express” reflecting the pace and dynamism that DTDC brings to last–mile delivery.
For years, customers living across Kerala’s backwaters had to travel by boat to collect their parcels from the nearest courier collection point, as conventional last–mile delivery networks ended where the roads did. With Vallam Express, DTDC is bridging this long-standing accessibility gap by extending deliveries directly to customers’ doorsteps, making direct delivery a reality for communities where waterways are the primary mode of transport.
At the heart of Vallam Express is a unique collaboration between DTDC‘s delivery professionals and Kerala’s traditional oarsmen, whose deep understanding of the region’s waterways enables seamless navigation through routes inaccessible by road. By integrating generations of local expertise into its delivery network, DTDC is not only strengthening last–mile connectivity but also creating meaningful livelihood opportunities while demonstrating how traditional knowledge can power modern logistics.
To mark the launch during the Onam season, DTDC has also unveiled a brand film #DTDCVallamExpress, featuring Kerala’s iconic snake boats. The film embodies the spirit of teamwork, resilience, and togetherness that these boats represent. Serving as the creative expression of Vallam Express, the campaign celebrates Kerala’s rich cultural heritage while showcasing the people and waterways that make this unique delivery model possible. Anchored by the thought “When Roads End, We Ride on Water“, the campaign film brings together operational solutions and emotionally rooted storytelling.
Commenting on the launch, Abhishek Chakraborty, CEO, DTDC Express Ltd., said, “More than a new delivery service, ‘Vallam Express’ reflects DTDC‘s philosophy of building logistics solutions that are shaped by local realities and customer needs. By reimagining the last mile through a region-specific delivery model, we continue to strengthen our position as a customer-first logistics brand that develops meaningful solutions for every community it serves.”
The service is currently introduced in Kuttanad, a sub-district of Alappuzha comprising 14 villages and serving a population of approximately 2 lakh people. This service is intended as a long-term delivery solution rather than a seasonal initiative. As the service scales, DTDC expects this service to facilitate over 5,000 deliveries in the coming year.
Shri S.D. Venukumar, a prominent local figure in Alappuzha, Kerala, who served as the Chairman of the Publicity Committee and President of the Alappuzha Press Club, commented, “Vallam Express is a remarkable initiative by DTDC that reflects inclusivity and a strong commitment to last–mile connectivity. For people living in Kerala’s remote backwater communities, where road connectivity is limited, collecting parcels often means travelling to the mainland and waiting several days. By introducing delivery through boats, DTDC is bridging this geographical gap and bringing essential logistics services closer to these communities. I would like to congratulate DTDC on introducing such a thoughtful initiative that not only makes deliveries more accessible and convenient but also sets a strong example of how businesses can create meaningful impact through pioneering last–mile solutions.”
As India continues to witness rapid transformation in logistics and commerce, DTDC remains focused on developing effective, customer-centric solutions that address unique regional challenges while strengthening last–mile connectivity. Vallam Express represents another milestone in the company’s journey towards building an inclusive and future-ready logistics network, one that ensures no customer is beyond reach, regardless of geography.
The #DTDCVallamExpress brand film will be shared across DTDC’s digital platforms as part of the campaign’s broader outreach