The Hindu Business Line : Kochi port to set up forum on trailer charges

The Cochin Port Trust has decided to set up a forum to look into the issues relating to container trailer transportation charges and genuine problems being faced by the trailer workers on the issues relating to wages, etc.

This would be an independent forum, the composition of which would be announced shortly after due consultations, said the port Chairman, Mr N. Ramachandran, on Thursday.

A decision in this regard comes in the wake of a standoff between the Custom House Agents Association and Cochin Container Owners Welfare Association on issues relating to container transportation charges in the port.

Earlier in the day, the Chairman had convened a meeting with the parties concerned, leaders of trade unions, and other port users, to discuss issues relating to container transportation to and from the port.

All unions unanimously agreed not to resort to lightning strikes in the interest of the trade and that all contentious matters would be discussed with the authorities concerned.

The Chairman said that no union or association would be permitted to collect money in whatever name from vehicles plying in roads or public places within the port.

If any person were seen indulging in any kind of collection of money, extortion, or exchange of receipts, tokens, etc., the matter would be reported to the police for action as per law.

The so-called turn system, he said, would not be permitted and there would be total freedom on the part of the trade to engage any truck or trailer of choice.