Ports Face Infra and Operational Hurdles: Droupadi Murmu

Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, recently highlighted the pressing need for ports to address their infrastructural and operational challenges. As the lifelines of global trade, ports play a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of goods and are critical for a nation's economic growth. However, these ports are grappling with a myriad of obstacles that hinder their efficiency and productivity. One of the significant challenges faced by ports is the lack of adequate infrastructure. Many ports in India struggle with outdated facilities that do not align with the evolving needs of the industry. The absence of advanced cargo handling equipment, insufficient storage capacity, and inadequate connectivity to transportation networks severely impede the ports' ability to handle increasing volumes of cargo efficiently. To overcome these hurdles, it is imperative for port authorities to invest in modern infrastructure to enhance their capabilities and stay competitive in the global market. Furthermore, operational challenges pose a persistent barrier to the smooth functioning of ports. Inefficient clearance processes, excessive paperwork, and bureaucratic red tape delay the movement of cargo, adding to the overall turnaround time and increasing costs