The impact of increased tension in the Gulf region due to Iran-US tensions is now clearly visible on India’s trade. The export business of entire Rajasthan including Jaipur has been badly affected. Exports to Gulf countries have almost stopped, due to which thousands of containers have accumulated in the yards of Jaipur.
Pressure increased in container yard, cost increased manifold
According to Sharif, a businessman associated with the container yard of Jaipur, earlier where 150 containers were visible, now their number has increased to more than 2,000. Ships have changed their routes due to threats in the Middle East and Red Sea region. Due to this, the container freight has increased from 300-500 dollars to 2,000 to 4,500 dollars. Due to war surcharge, insurance premium has also increased from $1,200 to $2,400, while delivery is getting delayed by 10-15 days.
Crowd increased at ports too, thousands of containers stuck
The accumulation of containers has increased at Kanakpura ICD of Jaipur as well as at major ports like Mundra Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPA). It is estimated that 2,500 to 3,000 containers are stranded across the country due to cancellation of bookings by shipping companies and ships not arriving on time.
Granite and marble industry most affected
The biggest impact of this crisis has been on the granite and marble industry of Rajasthan. Factories have started closing in Jalore, Kishangarh and Ajmer. Business worth about Rs 800 crore per month has been affected. 80% of the units in Jalore are on the verge of closure, while 250 units have been closed in the last two weeks.
Unemployment increased, migration of workers started
Due to continuous closure of units, more than 6,000 workers have become unemployed. The migration of laborers has started and many families are facing everyday problems. Industry experts say that unless the tension in the Gulf region is reduced, this crisis may continue.