Operational disruptions at key Indian container gateways Mundra Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port have increased pressure on the country’s trade logistics network, leading to shipment delays, higher transit times and mounting concerns among exporters and importers.
Industry stakeholders said congestion, vessel bunching, container handling delays and hinterland transportation bottlenecks at the two major ports have disrupted cargo movement across several trade lanes. The situation has particularly affected time-sensitive shipments, including engineering goods, textiles, electronics, chemicals and agricultural products.
Logistics companies and freight forwarders noted that delays in container evacuation, rail connectivity constraints and shortages of equipment in certain locations have added to operational challenges. Exporters are also facing increased logistics costs as shipping schedules become less predictable and turnaround times extend.
Trade bodies warned that repeated disruptions at major gateways expose structural weaknesses in India’s logistics chain, including heavy dependence on a limited number of high-volume ports. They stressed the need for stronger multimodal connectivity, improved port infrastructure, digital coordination and faster cargo evacuation systems to ensure supply chain resilience.
Despite the disruptions, port authorities and logistics operators are working to streamline operations, improve yard management and minimise congestion. Industry analysts said sustained investments in infrastructure expansion and inland logistics integration will be critical to supporting India’s growing trade volumes and export ambitions.
