Stuck at ports: Why several fertiliser vessels are stranded at Indian ports during peak kharif sowing season

Congestion has affected major Indian ports including Kandla, Mundra, Jawaharlal Nehru Port (Nhava Sheva) and Chennai.

Geopolitical tensions have caused vessel rerouting, worsening the congestion.

Monsoon disruptions, heavy hinterland cargo, and trailer shortages have slowed logistics.

By July 17, kharif sowing reached nearly 60% of normal, up from 48% on July 10, making timely fertiliser delivery critical.

A vessel carrying about 60,000 tonnes of DAP/NPK and one with 7,000 tonnes of urea have been awaiting berthing at Kandla Port since July 14.