Importing materials in containers through Chennai port's
private container terminals has become costlier with shipping lines doubling
the 'Chennai trade recovery surcharge' to $130 for a 20-foot equivalent unit
(TEU) from last Friday.
This is because of the delay in container vessels getting
berths due to severe congestion.
The surcharge has been increased to $65 for a TEU from $35
for the exports as well, according to industry sources.
The shipping lines said that situation at the two terminals
operated by DP World and PSA Singapore, respectively, has not improved in the
last few days leading to delays in arrival and departure of their vessels.
As of Friday morning, six container vessels were waiting
outside the port's anchorage waiting for berth.
The opening of gate 2A at the Chennai port has not improved
the situation at the two terminals. An official of one terminal said
infrastructure outside the port has not improved for speedier evacuation of containers.
Frequent strikes by trailer operators and other supporting
services is also resulting in traffic congestion in and around the port and
exporters do not know when the cargo will reach the port and whether he can
ship his consignment in the scheduled vessel. Exporters are forced to pay additional
charges to the trailers due to detention at port, and the charges imposed by
the shipping lines will make export unviable. said Mr Walter D'Souza, Regional
Chairman, FIEO Southern Region.
Source: The Business Line
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