Minimum draft at minor ports of Beypore and Azheekal is not being maintained which has become a hindrance to shipping service providers. The Maritime Board has announced plans to organise trade meets with the trade community to understand their requirements and provide them proper logistics facilities at various ports in the state.
Trade bodies have also voiced non-availability of empty boxes for exports from Beypore Port as a major concern. High freight rates and handling charges at Cochin Port also act as a hindrance in moving cargo through the port, said trade community officials. Both air and sea freight charges need to be brought down. The Customs department has informed that RODTEP and drawback returns can be given for cargo moving through Beypore, Kollam and Azheekal ports.
