Tragic death of a container driver triggers protests in the private sector

• Sri Lanka Shippers' Council and partner associations call on authorities to revisit Kerawalapitiya Customs Inspection Centre

The Sri Lanka Shippers' Council (SLSC), together with 17 member associations, the Container Transport Owners Association and the Association of Clearing and Forwarding Agents (ACFA), has expressed deep concern over the tragic death of a container driver who was waiting in line for three days at the Customs exit gate and called on the authorities to reconsider the Customs Inspection Centre project at Kerawalapitiya in order to provide better services to all.

In a statement, the SLSC pointed out that this unfortunate incident underscores significant problems in the current inspection process.

“We urge the authorities to reconsider the Customs Inspection Centre project in Kerawalapitiya. This facility was designed to ensure the health, safety and efficiency of all parties involved in the customs inspection process. Reviving this project is critical to prevent further tragedies and minimise the impact on the import and export community,” the SLSC added.

They pointed out that the capacity of the three private terminals designated for import controls was severely under-sized and that the facilities did not meet the basic health and hygiene needs of quay workers, container drivers and other personnel involved.

Despite repeated appeals to the authorities, the important initiative of the Customs in Kerawalapitiya, which promised a state-of-the-art inspection facility with comprehensive equipment, has been put on hold.

“The ongoing inadequacies of existing private terminals continue to cause unnecessary delays and hardships. These terminals focus primarily on generating revenue but do not provide essential services or facilities to drivers, container transporters or port employees. The import and export industry remains vulnerable to these inefficiencies, which could have serious consequences if not addressed promptly,” the statement said.

SLSC and its partners reiterated their commitment to the well-being of all those working in the logistics and customs industry and will continue to push for the necessary reforms to prevent future incidents.