Container logistics at the Vallarpadam terminal in Cochin have ground to a halt following a refusal by trailer crews to engage with mandatory customs scanning procedures. The Customs Department mandated that all cargo pass through a drive-in scanner, a policy that has triggered a widespread boycott by workers. The Hindu BusinessLine reports that this labor action has created severe congestion at clearance gates, disrupting both import and export flows since November 9.
Union representatives attribute the strike to serious health and safety grievances. Workers claim that traversing the scanning zone multiple times daily causes vomiting, headaches, and elevated heart rates. They allege that the Customs Commissioner initially promised protective equipment but withdrew the offer during negotiations, leading to the current standoff. This refusal has left hundreds of containers stranded at the terminal.
The operational blockage has resulted in massive traffic jams on NH 966A, the route linking Kalamassery to Vallarpadam. Trade sources indicate that the delay has imposed heavy financial penalties on importers, including detention and demurrage fees. The Cochin Chamber of Commerce and Industry has appealed to the Customs Commissioner to intervene immediately, aiming to restore smooth cargo movement and mitigate rising costs for businesses.
Bipu Punnuran and Prakash Iyer, leaders of the local trade body, proposed alternative inspection strategies. They suggested that authorities adopt random or risk-based scanning methods until infrastructure improves, or move examinations to designated freight stations. They argue that mandatory checks on every container are premature and that selective scanning would alleviate the current congestion without compromising security standards.
Government officials maintain that the scanning mandate aligns with a national strategy to achieve full container inspection at all ports by 2028. However, the immediate implementation at Cochin has faced stiff resistance. The Chamber warns that driver reluctance to transport goods due to health concerns is worsening the backlog, leaving the port in a state of logistical paralysis until a resolution is found.