Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Says 90% Cargo Cleared After Hormuz Disruption | Exclusive

In his first comments since the US-Iran war, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal told Timesnownews.com that nearly 90 per cent of India's cargo stuck in sea lanes has now been cleared after disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, adding that the government remains ready for any situation. "Nearly 90% of the backlog cargo has been cleared across major ports. This is a significant achievement considering the scale of disruption. While the situation has largely been normalised and vessel movement has stabilised, we continue to maintain close monitoring," he said. Sonowal said the ministry acted quickly to manage the crisis and reduce its impact. "We acted swiftly through continuous monitoring and close coordination with

all major ports and stakeholders. A real-time review mechanism was put in place to track vessel movement, cargo congestion and port-wise operations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given us clear instructions that we must take whatever means possible to minimise the impact and ensure sustained supply chain," he said. He added that ports were asked to improve operations to handle the situation better. "Ports were directed to adopt innovative operational strategies, enhance yard capacity and streamline logistics planning. These coordinated interventions ensured that disruptions caused by the situation in the Strait of Hormuz were contained quickly and operations were stabilised with minimal impact on trade," Sonowal said.

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On support for businesses, the minister said steps were taken to ease pressure on exporters and logistics partners. "Modi government's priority has been to ensure that the burden on exporters, importers and logistics partners is minimised. We have directed all port authorities to implement financial relief measures such as waivers on ground rent and concessions on reefer charges. Importantly, these benefits are being passed on directly to stakeholders without procedural delays," he said. He also made it clear that the government is keeping a close watch and will act against any unfair practices. "This crisis must not be used as an opportunity for undue profiteering, and any such instances, if found, will be dealt with firmly in the interest of fair trade practices," he said. He added, "The situation has improved significantly… however, given the evolving global scenario, we remain prepared for any contingencies." US-Israel's attacks on Iran, and Tehran's sweeping retaliation have all but halted shipping through the strait -- a narrow shipping lane that is the conduit for oil and gas exports from Gulf countries to the world. Iran has, however, stated that "non-hostile vessels" may transit the waterway after coordinating with Iranian authorities.