KOCHI: Among the several steps taken to improve the ease of doing business at the Kochi port by agencies like the Department of Customs, Cochin Port Trust (CPT), and the container terminal operator are the installation of a container scanner at the International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) at Vallarpadam. The scanner is expected to be ready for commissioning by the end of this year.
The Customs Department and the ICTT are also facilitating and promoting direct port delivery of both export and import containers to reduce cost for port users. The Customs Department also has a gate module at the ICTT gate where containers cleared by the department are visible.
Exit is recorded online as and when the containers make their exit through the gate.
Meanwhile, the CPT is trying to simplify clearance of vessels by making provisions for submission of documents in the electronic mode, so that it enables business transactions and clearances even beyond office hours.
Gate automation was introduced by the port authority more than a year ago in a bid to speed up evacuation. Besides, customs, port trust, and the terminal operator have been integrated to exchange messages electronically in an efficient and timely manner.
The port authority also offers 50% discount on demurrage for bulk and break-bulk cargo delivered at night with effect from August last year.
The step has been taken to encourage evacuation of cargo during non-peak hours of port operations.
