India’s major ports have begun implementing a common set of operating procedures to ensure the smooth movement of cargo as the ongoing conflict in West Asia continues to disrupt shipping schedules and global supply chains. The measures form part of a coordinated response led by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, following consultations with exporters, shipping lines, logistics providers and other trade stakeholders.
Under the newly introduced standard operating procedure (SOP), ports have been directed to fast-track decisions on operational requests linked to the crisis. This includes approvals related to cargo storage, vessel berthing and rescheduling of ships affected by disruptions in the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters.
Each port has designated a nodal officer to act as a single-window contact point for stakeholders seeking assistance. These officers will coordinate with shipping lines, exporters and importers to resolve operational issues quickly and ensure that cargo handling continues without major delays.
The SOP also gives ports flexibility to temporarily relax certain commercial conditions to reduce financial pressure on cargo owners. This may include remission of storage rent and other related charges for shipments that cannot be dispatched as originally scheduled due to the ongoing situation.
In addition, ports have been advised to explore ways to create extra storage space for containers bound for Middle Eastern markets while prioritising the handling of time-sensitive and critical cargo. The objective is to prevent cargo congestion at Indian ports even as shipping routes and vessel schedules adjust to the evolving regional situation.
Government officials said the broader strategy is aimed at maintaining supply chain stability and supporting exporters facing uncertainty in the region. Parallel discussions are also underway with insurers, banks and export credit agencies to address emerging challenges such as rising insurance premiums, payment risks and working-capital constraints caused by the conflict.