Durban port delays threaten Diwali supplies for Hindu retailers

Delays at Durban's port have left some prayer-goods retailers awaiting imported décor, spices, snacks, and clay lamps ahead of the Diwali festival, sparking concerns about potential shortages and increased prices. Over the past two months, prayer shops and other businesses supplying goods for Hindu festivals have not received their full consignment of goods, adversely impacting their operations. Many retailers fear they will not be able to meet customer demands ahead of Diwali.

Quraisha Maharaj, owner of Maharaj's Prayer Goods, expressed that they have yet to receive many items they had imported from India. The port authorities informed her that they are experiencing a computer system failure, preventing them from planning the release of containers. Her consignment, intended to be available before Navaratri, remains at the harbor, and her business has suffered due to the delays.

Maharaj had sourced and ordered supplies in August, considering the four to six weeks required for delivery. However, to compensate for the delays, she had to purchase goods from suppliers in Johannesburg, resulting in higher costs and restricted sales of prayer items to customers.

A spokesperson from one of the largest importers of Indian cultural items in Springfield Park confirmed that their business and others supplying religious and cultural wares are encountering delivery delays. They are currently awaiting the delivery of stock for Diwali, including décor, packaging, and clay lamps from India. The spokesperson expressed disappointment at not being able to fulfill promised items to customers and hopes for a turnaround in the next two weeks.

Sandra John from Nishan's Prayer Goods, however, has not yet been affected by the port delays. She buys in advance from an importer and currently has stock for Diwali. Despite a good run during the Puratta fasting month and Navaratri, John predicts a standstill in business if port delays persist. The Transnet's Port Terminal in Durban could not be reached for comment.