Indian ports and container terminals are preparing for a major change in cargo security procedures as the government moves towards mandatory scanning of every export and import container passing through major ports. While the initiative is aimed at strengthening cargo security and improving the detection of contraband and misdeclarations, industry stakeholders are concerned that inadequate scanning capacity could initially cause congestion and delays.
The proposal would mark a significant shift from the current risk-based scanning system, under which Customs uses automated risk profiling to select specific containers for non-intrusive inspection. Containers identified through the Risk Management System are scanned using mobile or drive-through X-ray systems, while suspicious shipments can be subjected to physical examination.
Government pushes wider non-intrusive scanning
The move follows the Union Budget 2026–27 announcement that non-intrusive inspection using advanced imaging and artificial intelligence would be expanded in phases, with the objective of scanning every container at major Indian ports.
The government has also been developing a Customs Integrated System intended to bring customs processes onto a single, scalable digital platform. The wider use of technology-based inspection is expected to improve risk assessment while reducing the need for physical opening of containers.
Terminals concerned about capacity
Port operators and trade stakeholders, however, are worried about the operational impact of moving from selective scanning to 100% scanning.
At Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), for example, the number of containers subjected to scanning has already increased substantially in recent years. The port currently has five scanners—three mobile X-ray units and two drive-through scanners—with three additional units under commissioning.
Industry representatives argue that existing infrastructure may not be sufficient to handle every container without creating bottlenecks. The concern is particularly serious for containers moving by rail, where the existing logistics chain does not always allow cargo to be routed through conventional scanning arrangements.
Rail cargo presents a particular challenge
For road-bound containers, container freight stations can facilitate scanning before cargo moves onward. Rail cargo is more complicated because containers may need to be taken out for scanning, returned and then loaded onto trains.
Shipping lines and terminal operators are therefore looking for solutions that allow rail containers to be scanned efficiently without disrupting train schedules. Stakeholders have suggested that any new inland scanning infrastructure should cater to both road and rail cargo.
Ports explore inland scanning solutions
JNPA and terminal operators have been discussing alternatives to the current mobile-scanner arrangement, including the possibility of establishing inland scanning facilities. The objective is to move scanning away from congested terminal operations and allow containers to continue moving through the supply chain with minimal interruption.
Technology will be central to the transition. The government intends to expand the use of advanced imaging and AI-based risk assessment, while ports are examining scanning systems capable of processing significantly higher cargo volumes. Existing investments show that higher-capacity equipment is already being deployed at Indian ports; for example, a drive-through scanner at V.O. Chidambaranar Port has been designed to scan up to 100 vehicles per hour.
Trade fears higher costs and delays
Exporters, importers and logistics companies are concerned that a poorly phased implementation could increase truck waiting times, container dwell times and handling costs. Any slowdown in cargo evacuation could also affect vessel turnaround, rail movements and delivery schedules.
The concerns come at a time when Indian ports are already dealing with periodic congestion and supply-chain disruptions caused by geopolitical developments. Additional inspection requirements could put further pressure on terminal infrastructure if scanning capacity does not expand at the same pace as cargo volumes.
Despite these concerns, mandatory non-intrusive scanning is expected to strengthen India’s customs security framework and improve the ability of authorities to identify suspicious cargo without physically opening every container.
The key challenge will be implementation. Adequate scanner capacity, separate facilities for road and rail cargo, faster digital risk assessment and coordinated movement between Customs, terminals, shipping lines and inland logistics operators will be critical to ensuring that enhanced security does not translate into prolonged delays for India’s EXIM trade.
