Says gates are mandatory under port security norms
The clarification comes amid public discussion and objections over the gates at the Baina up-ramp.
VASCO
The Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) has clarified that the gates installed at the Baina up-ramp will not be removed as they are part of mandatory port security infrastructure. However, it assured that public movement through the ramps will continue without restrictions.
MPA Chairman Dr N Vinod Kumar on Friday said the gates were installed under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) protocol and are located on port land. He said the issue should not be seen as a confrontation and stressed that the gates are only meant for port security. The clarification comes amid public discussion and objections over the gates at the Baina up-ramp, which is frequently used by commuters.
BUILT FOR CARGO
Speaking to reporters, Dr Kumar said the Baina up-ramp was originally built entirely with MPA funds for transporting cargo linked to port operations. However, despite the infrastructure being built for port purposes, the MPA later allowed public use of the ramps after discussions with authorities and stakeholders. “MPA has clarified its stand on the gates several times earlier as well. There is an up-ramp and a down-ramp at Baina. The up-ramp was built completely with port funds for cargo movement, but despite that, after discussions, we allowed public transport through the ramps,” said Dr Kumar.
He said gates were installed only to comply with ISPS security norms applicable to ports and sensitive port facilities.
SECURITY REQUIREMENT
“We have installed the gate only as part of ISPS security requirements. Even during the meeting with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, we clearly stated that the gates will remain permanently. However, the gates will stay open for the public and there is no intention to stop regular movement,” he said.
FOR EMERGENCIES
Dr Kumar said the gates would be important during emergencies or any untoward incident when port authorities may need to control or restrict movement into the port area. “This is only a security requirement and is necessary so that traffic entering the port can be controlled in case of any untoward incident. It should not be viewed as an ego issue. The gates are installed on port land and are part of mandatory security measures,” he added.
The MPA chief reiterated that public access through the ramps would continue as usual while the authority fulfils national and international port security requirements.
