Strikes in Cochi threaten terminal project viability

Kerala state's Cochin Port Trust (CPT) has been warned that frequent strikes and 'uncertain business conditions' in Kochi (Cochin) pose a major threat to the proposed international container transshipment terminal (ICTT) project.
DP World, owners of India Gateway Terminals Ltd. (IGTL) which operates Kochi's Rajiv Gandhi Container Terminal, wrote to the CPT saying that frequent work disruptions have affected viability of the ICTT project.
According to DP World, the ICTT, one of India's 'most ambitious maritime business prospects', is facing delays to the tender for the venture's civil works due to an unhelpful business atmosphere.
DP World has reportedly lost a dozen work days in the last 20 months due to strikes which have threatened the profitability of operations.
DP World's warning came during a flash strike by workers since Wednesday which shut container handling operations at the port of Kochi for a day and a half.
The workers did not issue any notice prior to the strike, claiming loss of work due to IGTL's implementation of a new handling system without consultation.
They were appeased only after a 'marathon' reconciliatory meeting between CPT authorities, IGTL officials and the trade unions.