Sri Lanka Customs has launched a special programme to accelerate container clearance at Colombo Port, following directives from the President.
Customs Media Spokesman Seevali Arukgoda revealed that 459 containers were cleared yesterday, including 242 containers inspected and released from the RCT, Greyline 1, and Greyline 2 yards.
Despite Customs’ capacity to process around 500 containers daily, a shortage of clearing agents and lorry drivers has slowed operations.
Currently, 496 containers with issued door permits await inspection at the designated yards, while another 603 cleared containers remain uncollected by importers and agents, contributing to congestion.
To address these challenges, Sri Lanka Customs, alongside other state agencies, is operating on a public holiday to expedite clearance, reduce the backlog, and alleviate storage pressure within port terminals.
Authorities emphasize that the initiative is vital to enhancing the efficiency of port operations and resolving the ongoing delays.
