• Container transporters claim Ports Authority land given for Customs use not permitted for container truck drivers, warn that cargo vessels may shift to other ports 

The Chairperson of the Container Transport Owners’ Association, Sanath Manjula has raised concerns over the re-emergence of container truck congestion at the Colombo Port, attributing the situation to the failure of the relevant officials to implement recommendations made by the relevant Cabinet Sub Committee.

Speaking at a press conference held yesterday (25), Manjula stated that although a fully-equipped portion of land belonging to the Ports Authority was recently allocated to the Sri Lanka Customs with the aim of reducing congestion, no vehicles have been permitted to access the designated area thus far. As a result, container truck drivers and owners are experiencing significant inconvenience, he added.

Manjula further warned that if the situation persists, cargo vessels may divert to other ports, and perishable goods and essential items stored in containers could spoil or become unusable due to prolonged delays.

He emphasised that immediate instructions must be issued to the relevant authorities to take appropriate action to resolve the matter without delay.