To look into the issues connected with ‘high’ handling charges at Kochi port and also at the ICTT Vallarpadam, the Cochin Port Trust has constituted a committee. A decision on this was taken at the board of trustees meeting following widespread complaints from port users on high handling charges, forcing them to divert their cargo to neighbouring ports on the coastline.
The reasons behind the high charges are being sought by the Cochin Port Trust at a time when it has taken special efforts to attract bulk and break-bulk cargoes to the port, considering its geographical advantages.
Along with two top officials from the port, the Port Trust panel comprises representatives of steamer agents, labour trustees, clearing and forwarding agencies, seafood exporters and other stakeholders. The panel is to submit its report within a month.