Amid relentless monsoon rains and recent downpours in the Kutch-Saurashtra region, Mundra Port’s empty container depots (ECDs) have been thrown into chaos—crippling cargo movement and causing widespread shipment damage. Transporters and customs brokers cite severe waterlogging and thick sludge, which have rendered the ECD zones nearly impassable, intensifying operational gridlocks at India’s largest private port.
The Kutch region has already recorded 58% of its seasonal rainfall, leaving large sections of Mundra Port’s empty container depots (ECDs) submerged. The flooding has caused significant delays and direct damage to cargo. According to Manoj Kotak, secretary of the Mundra Customs Brokers’ Association (MCBA), many depots lack basic drainage systems and proper access infrastructure, such as paved roads or paver blocks. Despite repeated appeals to operators and port authorities, no corrective action has been taken, exacerbating challenges for logistics stakeholders.
Mundra Port handled approximately 200 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo in 2024–25, averaging around 6.02 lakh MT per day, according to Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ). However, ongoing infrastructure challenges have sparked concern among transport stakeholders. Waterlogged container yards have left export-bound empty containers stranded, while soaked and mud-covered cargo units await inspection and repairs—fueling disputes over damage claims and deepening frustration among exporters.
The logistics division of the Union ministry of commerce also proposed guidelines to maintain proper infrastructure at ECDs. “ECDs are a critical part of the supply chain. Measures for standardisation of infrastructure and facilities available at the ECDs need to be taken. Transparency, registration, and minimum infrastructure norms must be enforced without delay,” stated the guidelines.
