VASCO
Goa Barge Owners Association (GBOA) has appealed to exporters and shippers to help the few barges, especially those with loans, to remain in business.
Addressing a news conference, GBOA President Raymond D’Sa said many of the members were trying to shift their barges to other states in hope of getting business so that loans could be paid.
D’Sa said, “The order of the Supreme Court (dated April 4, 2018) has come like a saviour and provided relief as barges could be unloaded and used for more trips. We will at least stay busy for the next two months.” “We hope to see a similar decision on the mining issue. We have lost business for the last six years. We hope that government will come out with a concrete solution so that our business starts again by next season,” he added.
D’Sa also said they were ready to transport any cargo available in Goa and also appealed to exporters and shippers to help the barging industry at this juncture.
“Lately some exporters are using their own barges for export and we don’t get much trips. Many members have approached me with proposals to move their barges to other states,” he added.
