New Delhi, April 10 (NationPress) Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, announced on Friday that approximately 90% of the backlog cargo at major ports has been successfully addressed, thanks to prompt intervention and consistent oversight by the government amid disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

During a high-level review meeting with senior officials and port authorities, Sonowal remarked that coordinated and proactive measures were crucial in quickly stabilizing operations, thereby minimizing the impact on India’s trade.

He acknowledged that the evolving circumstances in West Asia had initially caused delays and congestion at ports, but the government’s immediate response facilitated the efficient clearance of goods.

“We acted promptly and in a unified manner to tackle the emerging challenges. Ongoing monitoring and timely interventions have allowed us to regularize port operations and effectively clear the backlog, ensuring that India’s trade remains robust,” stated the minister.

In his review of port-specific operations, Sonowal expressed satisfaction regarding the notable progress and praised port authorities and workers for maintaining seamless operations during this critical period characterized by global uncertainties.

He underscored that the government’s focus extends beyond mere operational continuity to protecting the interests of exporters, importers, and logistics stakeholders.

The minister instructed all port authorities to guarantee that the financial relief measures announced by the ministry, which include waivers on ground rent and concessions on reefer charges, are conveyed to stakeholders without undue delays or bureaucratic obstacles.

He also directed the Directorate General of Shipping to ensure complete transparency in shipping-related charges, warning against any attempts to exploit the situation.

“This crisis should not be turned into an opportunity for profiteering. All charges must be thoroughly documented and monitored to safeguard trade interests,” Sonowal emphasized, highlighting the necessity for accountability throughout the sector.

The review also concentrated on enhancing grievance redressal mechanisms at ports, with directives issued to ensure quicker resolution of stakeholder issues during such disruptions.

Officials reported that major ports, including Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, Deendayal Port Authority, New Mangalore Port Authority, and Mumbai Port Authority, have largely resolved stranded cargo.