Chennai port announces slew of measures to ensure good business

“Radio Frequency identification based gate automation system in collaboration with Container Freight Stations, Steamer Agents Association and customs envisages integration of software from the import, export and customs terminals to cut down waiting time from 1 to 2 minutes for tractor-trailers” officials said.

A revised estimate of Rs.16.12 crores for non-container cargo will soon call for tenders, it was said. “When the RFID system becomes operational, the current practice of printing E-form 13 will be stopped” officials said. 

Similarly, Chennai Container Terminal and Chennai International Terminal were advised by CPT (Chennai Port Trust) officials to increase their DPD (Direct Port Delivery) to customers by 25% before September end and by 40% by December end. Customers were advised to avail of this service by registering with both container terminals, officials said and added “the DPD for both terminals in July was 14% and 13% respectively.” 

For operational transparency, Chennai customs in addition to a mobile scanner for import laden containers, are “working to fix a fixed scanner. Four locations were identified for fixing mobile and drive through scanners. Work is currently on for a technical evaluation” officials added. 

However, a major sop for clients would be the shipping ministry along with TAMP (Tariff Authority for Major Ports) okaying a scheme for provision of incentives for non-regular hours delivery when rates are revised next. 

In addition to a FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) lab, four more labs have expressed interest in putting up offices in the CDO (Central Documentation Office) complex inside the port following a letter inviting government clearing agencies to do so “to enable expeditious clearing of goods,” officials ended.