‘Sir, We’re Bored!’ Surat Diamond Bourse Customs Officers Cry for Work

Surat: The Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB), envisioned as a bustling hub for diamond trading, is grappling with unexpected challenges. Sources within the Surat customs department reveal that customs officers stationed at the SDB are facing an unusual predicament—boredom due to a lack of work. This was highlighted during a tea meeting with the senior customs commissioner, where six officers, including a superintendent and inspector, expressed their frustrations.

“Sir, I am bored. Give us work,” said the officers, candidly pointing out that only one or two diamond parcels arrive for export each day. The lack of activity leaves them sitting idle for most of the day, with even the import of rough diamonds falling short of expectations. The customs house, which was set up to manage a high volume of diamond trade, now finds itself underutilized.

Banking Sector Faces Similar Woes

The challenges aren’t limited to customs officers. The banking sector within the SDB has also been impacted. Banks have stopped operations due to insufficient business. Bank staff, like the customs officers, were reportedly spending their days without meaningful work.

Businesses Shutter Amid Low Footfall

The lack of activity extends to businesses operating within the SDB. Amul Dairy, which launched an international-standard ice cream parlor and restaurant in the bourse, had to close the venture due to a lack of customers. Jayen Mehta, Managing Director of GCMMF Amul, had inaugurated the outlet with much fanfare, but the venture’s closure marks a first in Amul’s history.

Similarly, Sumul Dairy’s Master Chef restaurant also shut its doors for the same reason. Both businesses have reportedly demanded a refund of their deposits and a waiver of rent, citing poor business conditions.

Operational Concerns and Relocation Issues

Currently, only 25 members of the SDB’s office committee are actively involved, far fewer than the expected 150 members. This low engagement has raised concerns about the bourse’s operational efficiency. Additionally, the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has decided to vacate its prime office in the ICC building on Ring Road and move to Building B within the SDB. However, members are opposing this relocation, arguing that the ICC building is more convenient and accessible.

The situation at the Surat Diamond Bourse highlights broader challenges in maintaining the vibrancy of such a massive infrastructure project. While SDB was envisioned as a world-class trading hub, the current scenario highlights a pressing need to attract more business and activity.

Lalji Patel, vice-chairman of the SDB told  TBT, “Post-Diwali festival, we are hopeful that the traders from Mahidhapura diamond market will commence their trading operations from the Surat Diamond Bourse. I am reaching out to the leading diamond traders to start operations. At present, about 15 to 20 diamond parcels are sent through the customs and this figure will certainly increase before January 2025” .