JNPA offers partial refunds to importers hit by port congestion delays

The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) has introduced a new relief measure for importers facing delays. Containers stuck at port terminals for more than eight days will now qualify for a partial refund on ground rent. The move comes after ongoing congestion caused by a shortage of trailer drivers. The scheme covers import-laden containers destined for Container Freight Stations (CFSs) or Direct Port Delivery (DPD) facilities. To be eligible, containers must have been unloaded from vessels on or after May 1 and removed by June 20. Those arriving after June 12 will not receive any reimbursement.

Importers must submit several documents to claim the refund. These include ground rent payment invoices with container details, a copy of the Delivery Order (DO), and bank account information. All submissions go to the office of the General Manager (Finance) at JNPA.

Once verified, the approved reimbursement—50% of the ground rent from the ninth day after landing until removal—will be transferred directly to the importer’s bank account. The trade notice, issued with approval from JNPA’s competent authority, was signed by Girish Thomas, Chief General Manager (Traffic).

The congestion at port terminals had worsened due to a lack of trailer drivers. This left CFS operators and DPD importers unable to clear containers within the usual timeframe, leading to backlogs. The reimbursement aims to ease financial pressure on importers affected by delays. Eligible containers must meet the specified landing and removal dates. Approved claims will see funds credited after document verification.