The port workers in India have called for an indefinite strike across all major ports starting on 17 December, if the government fails to implement wage revisions and productivity schemes before 15 December.
During September, the labor federations deferred a planned strike after a settlement was signed on a revision of wages and other service conditions.
The strike action was decided at the National Coordination Committee of the Port and Dock Workers meeting in Goa on 23 November. During the meeting, the committee seems to have expressed concern and protest against the attitude of the authorities in delaying the implementation of the statutory settlements.
The Indian dockworkers are expected to hold protests at major ports on December 5, as well as a mass demonstration before the administrative buildings of respective major ports demand the implementation of settlements. The port pensioners who would also benefit from the wage settlement are expected to protest before all major port offices on 10 December, according to local reports.
Global container lines are taking proactive measures to prepare for potential strike actions, aiming to minimize any disruptions and ensure business continuity.
“As the situation unfolds, our teams are working to assess any impact on operations and are in close communication with all relevant parties to ensure delivering the latest updates that might impact your cargo planning,” said Hapag-Lloyd in a customer advisory.