Extracted Data Points

  • The congestion issue was caused by a trailer driver shortage at Container Freight Stations (CFS).
  • This led to delays in the evacuation of 25,000 containers of import cargo.
  • Immediate operational interventions were implemented by Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA).
  • Containers were evacuated through rail movement to nearby CFSs equipped with railway sidings.
  • Simultaneous scanning of double containers was introduced to reduce processing time.
  • Intern-Terminal Railway Handling Operation (ITRHO) charges were waived.
  • Change of Mode of Transport charges were waived.
  • Port terminals extended waivers and discounts on ground rent charges on a case-to-case basis.
  • Dedicated green channels for empty trailers were established across terminals.
  • Leading CFS operators pooled nearly 100 trailers to lift entire container stacks.
  • This enabled the evacuation of long-pending and buried containers from congested yards.
  • These efforts reduced the number of containers lying at terminals for more than 14 days.
  • Further efforts are underway to allow importers direct access to port terminal yards.
  • There are plans to match export trailers with import containers from the port.

Long-term Resilience Strategy

  • Intensified efforts by CFS operators and transporters to increase driver availability.
  • Enhanced cargo evacuation through railways.
  • Engagement with motor driving training schools to build a larger pool of trained trailer drivers.
  • Planning a gradual transition to electric vehicles to improve operational sustainability and driver comfort.
  • Introduction of a Truck Appointment System to reduce congestion at terminal gates.
  • Terminals are being encouraged to deploy additional handling equipment to support rising cargo volumes.