According to media reports, the International Container Transhipment Terminal (ICTT) in Vallarpadam, Kerala is concerned about the disruption in cargo movement because of strike by trailer crew.
It is learnt that movement of cargo, especially import containers carrying perishable items such as fruits from the US and China, is affected because of the strike.
The trailer crew announced strike alleging that the trailer-ownersÂ’ association back-tracked from the assurance given to workers to provide a 10.5 per cent hike in wages, which was agreed before the District Collector.
ICTT feels that such hindrances and disruptions in cargo movement would dent the image of the port, particularly at a time when mainline shipping services are looking at Kochi after Cabotage waiver.
According to the container-ownersÂ’ association, the reason for the current strike is the unreasonable wage hike demands being made by drivers and cleaners of container lorries.
According to Cochin Customs House Agents Association, there is a need to evolve a mechanism which would not hamper the trade.
Any grievance related to port users, trade unions, trailers, custom house agents, etc., must be placed before a body consisting representatives of all concerned. They should examine each demand and find solutions without hampering the port operations, the association feels.
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