The proposal of Tariff Authority for Major Ports (TAMP) for a 40 percent increase in vessel related charges has put the shipping community at Kochi port in a spot, the Hindu Business Line reported.

         The TAMP proposal, which is to be applicable with effect from May 7, has come at a time when the port users together with the management are finding ways to reduce costs to make Kochi competitive especially in the wake of commissioning of the ICTT at Vallarpadam, sources in the shipping fraternity said.