ports

Maersk Diverts India-US Vessels to Mumbai Terminal Amid Nhava Sheva Congestion

Carrier congestion at Nhava Sheva Port Authority (JNPA) is forcing ocean carriers to make unexpected terminal switches. Maersk announced two MECL service vessels—Kensington Maersk and Clementine Maersk—scheduled to arrive May 22 and 29 respectively, will dock at PSA Mumbai instead of their regular DP World Nhava Sheva berth. Terminal sources attributed the shuffle to yard space constraints at NSICT, with Maersk needing to clear backlogged empty containers before accepting fresh cargo. The last-minute switch creates operational challenges for shippers facing potential terminal handling charge changes and cargo planning disruptions. JNPA has experienced repeated gate-in/out delays over recent weeks. Meanwhile, PSA Mumbai is working to ease congestion by expanding rail-based freight movement. The terminal signed a memorandum of understanding with rail operator Container Corp of India to develop multimodal logistics products.