MUMBAI: In a development that could significantly impact container movement and logistics operations at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), multiple transport associations operating at Nhava Sheva have jointly announced a voluntary stoppage of transport services from 28 May 2026 over escalating charges levied at Empty Container Yards (ECYs).
According to a “Notice to Trade” issued by several transport and container operator associations, transporters have expressed serious concern over the heavy charges being imposed for the pickup and drop-off of empty containers at container yards. The associations stated that despite repeated meetings and discussions with various authorities, no satisfactory resolution has been achieved and the issue has continued to worsen.
The notice emphasized that all transport associations operating at JNPA have collectively decided that transporters will no longer pay any LOLO (Lift-On Lift-Off) charges or other related fees imposed at Empty Container Yards for handling empty containers.
As a result, transport vehicles will voluntarily cease operations at locations where such charges are demanded, effective from 28 May 2026. The move is expected to affect container evacuation, repositioning of empty containers, and overall supply chain operations linked to India’s largest container gateway.
The associations further clarified that any consequences arising from the disruption would be attributable to the prevailing circumstances, maintaining that transport associations should not be held responsible for the operational impact.
The notice has been jointly issued by several key industry bodies, including the Nhava-Sheva Container Operators Welfare Association, Reefer Container Transporters Welfare Association, All India Transporters Welfare Association, Navi Mumbai Transport Association, Maharashtra Rajya Motor Malak Sangh, Maharashtra Vahtuk Sena, and other regional transport groups.
Industry stakeholders are now closely watching for intervention by port authorities, shipping lines, container yard operators, and government agencies to prevent disruptions to trade and logistics activities at JNPA.
