Freight movement in Tamil Nadu is gradually slowing as exports and imports face disruption amid the US–Israel–Iran conflict, according to officials.
The report said Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz and is allowing cargo vessels to pass only after collecting crude-oil charges, while restricting ships linked to countries supporting the US and Israel. This has affected the flow of crude oil and other goods to India, and has also impacted food exports.
As a result, the number of vehicles carrying cargo to ports has begun to decline, raising concerns over potential job losses for drivers, cleaners, booking agents and vehicle owners.
A National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) project official said freight and container truck movement has dropped by around 30% through key toll plazas on routes leading to Chennai, including Nallur (Chennai–Kolkata highway), Sriperumbudur (Chennai–Bengaluru highway), Vanagaram and Surapattu (Chennai bypass), Mathur (Outer Ring Road), and Paranur (Chennai–Tiruchi highway). If the war continues, the decline could reach 60% within April, the official added.
