Port disputes are not legal problems — they are project execution problems. And they can be prevented.
Port projects don’t fail because of big disputes.
They fail because small issues are ignored until they explode.
In a sector driven by tight timelines, geotechnical surprises, high-value equipment, and multi-contractor interfaces, even a 10-day delay can trigger demurrage, LDs, variation disputes, and cascading overruns.
1. Delays multiply losses
Idle berths, stalled dredging and variation-related stoppages directly convert into financial damage.
Early intervention prevents escalation before it becomes a claim cycle.
2. Technical issues must be solved while the site is live.
Once the matter reaches arbitration:
• site conditions change
• evidence gets lost
• teams move on
A Project Mediator resolves issues when facts are fresh and workable.
3. Arbitration comes too late for port projects
Litigation/arbitration cycles run **3–8 years.
Port operations cannot pause for that long.
Early intervention keeps the project moving even when disagreements arise.
4. Global ports rely on early-warning systems
Singapore, Rotterdam, Dubai → Project Mediator from Day 1.
Structured monthly early-warning reviews.
7–14 day turnaround for technical disputes.
India’s port ecosystem is rapidly moving in the same direction.
5. Early intervention protects relationships
Ports depend on strong coordination between authorities, EPCs, dredgers, OEMs, consultants, and operators.
A neutral keeps collaboration alive.
6. It is exponentially cheaper
Early solution = 1–5% of arbitration cost.
Late solution = expert fees, delay analysis, legal cost, and massive time loss.
Early intervention is not optional — it is a strategic necessity for India’s expanding port and maritime infrastructure landscape.