Whalesbook
Faster Cargo Movement
New government efforts are focused on speeding up the movement of containers at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA). This is crucial for Gulf-bound trade, especially for cargo that has been rerouted to JNPA, which has recently faced increased pressure on its infrastructure.
Streamlining Operations and Cutting Costs
To tackle congestion, partly caused by a previous shortage of truck drivers at JNPA, authorities are using rail to quickly move stranded containers. Some will be sent to Container Freight Stations that have rail connections. Double container scanning will also speed up processing. Fees like Intern-Terminal Railway Handling Operation (ITRHO) and Change of Mode of Transport have been removed. Port terminals are also offering discounts on ground rent. Dedicated 'green channels' for empty trailers will help reduce the time trucks spend at the port.
Boosting Driver Supply and Infrastructure Use
Container Freight Station operators and transport companies have been told to find more drivers. They are also increasing the use of rail to move cargo and working with driving schools to train more qualified trailer drivers. This focus on workers and using infrastructure efficiently is key to keeping goods moving and supporting India's goal of making business easier.
Global Shipping Context
While India works to ease its port congestion, global shipping reliability remains a challenge. In early 2026, Sea-Intelligence reported that global vessel schedule reliability was below 60%, a common issue on major trade routes. India's efforts at JNPA aim to improve its performance in the face of this global shipping uncertainty. By improving port efficiency, India aims to stay competitive in international trade, particularly for routes to the Middle East.