2025, Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part E

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented disruptions to transport and logistics operations worldwide, with localized impacts varying across regions. In Kerala, a state heavily reliant on road-based freight, restrictions on movement, increased operational costs, and fuel price fluctuations deeply affected logistics providers. The pandemic highlighted the fragility of supply networks and the importance of resilience within regional logistics systems.
Objectives: This study aims to analyze the relationship between operational stressors namely increased transport costs, travel restrictions, and fuel charge hikes and the level of business disruption experienced by logistics transport providers in Kerala during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methodology: A quantitative research design was employed, involving structured surveys from 72 logistics providers across Kerala. Data were analyzed using Chi-Square tests of independence to determine significant associations between operational factors and perceived business impacts. The analysis sought to identify the most critical determinants of disruption within the sector.
Results: The findings reveal statistically significant relationships between each operational factor and the level of disruption. Increased transport costs (?² = 21.21, p<0.001), stricter travel restrictions (?² = 23.45, p<0.001), and higher fuel charges (?² = 17.34, p<0.001) were all strongly associated with greater business impact. These results suggest that logistical resilience in Kerala was heavily influenced by operational expenses and regulatory limitations.
Conclusions: The study concludes that operational stressors significantly affected the stability and continuity of logistics businesses during the pandemic. Targeted policy interventions such as temporary fuel subsidies, cost management support, and balanced regulatory measures are essential to enhance the sector’s resilience against future crises.