Mumbai: The flow of containers to and from vessels calling at Cochin port (pictured) has resumed after two days of suspended service due to a wildcat strike by drivers and crew of the container transportation trucks. The strike was organised by worker unions servicing the India Gateway Terminal - a project jointly operated by DP World (holding a 76% stake), Container Corporation of India (15%), Chakiat group (5%) and Transworld Shipping (4%).
According to local papers, the unions were protesting extensive delays due to congestion that required them to spend a lot of time waiting at the port with inadequate facilities to cater to worker needs such as rest areas and canteens.
Despite the strike lasting just over 48 hours, the congestion coupled with additional vessels awaiting loading and discharge means that the port is reported to be running severely behind schedule. Two vessels have been diverted to the neighbouring ports of Colombo and Tuticorin respectively to allow them to offload. [08/08/08]
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