The Hindu Business Line : Round-the-clock work at Kochi port facing problems

Kochi, Sept. 4 The introduction of 24x7 work hours in Kochi Port from July 1 seems to be facing rough weather following a dispute between the trade unions and the container terminal operator, India Gateway Terminal (IGT).

The joint forum of trade unions, which had served a strike notice to the port management in this regard, said that they had decided to revert to the old system with three shift operations by withdrawing the hot seat exchange system in the container terminal.

The port had introduced 24x7 work hours to avoid time delays and to ensure that change of duty takes place in an ideal manner.

However, the trade unions alleged that the management of IGT was arranging shifts as per their choice with no legal rest time, relievers or minimum strength maintained in each category.

The terminal operator had not even served any notice effecting changes in the working conditions of workers, which is mandatory as per the Industrial Dispute Act, the leaders said.

According to the leaders, they had agreed to implement 24x7 work and staggered system with a clear understanding from the port management that no monetary loss should be suffered by any worker and that the value addition such as transport and restroom facilities would be extended to workers.

Because of the switchover to the new system, the deputed port workers had to work more and suffered substantial monetary loss.

The conciliatory talks convened by the Regional Labour Commissioner (Central) between the port management, IGT and trade unions had also not bear fruit.

The unions said that they were willing to implement 24x7 hours working shifts and roster off system provided the assurance given by the port management was honoured by the IGT authorities after entering into a tripartite settlement.

Mr Suresh Joseph, General Manager, DP World, told Business Line that they had extended all co-operation to the port management to introduce 24x7, as it would provide a great benefit to the trade.

However, the unions have demanded more benefits other than operational benefits, which the company could not provide.

The trade unions then unilaterally reverted back to the old system that existed before July 1.

“We had discussions with the unions, RLC and the port management and the unions abruptly decided to not to work on Sundays, leaving mainline vessels shutting out containers.”

The operators of mainline services are now contemplating calling off Kochi from their port of calls, he added.

The port Chairman, Mr N. Ramachandran, said that the situation was not out of control now.

The port would initiate steps to settle the issue amicably by holding talks with the parties concerned.

The productivity in the terminal had gone up considerably with the introduction of 24x7, he added.

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