THE GOAN NETWORK
VASCO
The logistics committee of the Goa Chambers of Commerce and Industries (GCCI) met newly appointed Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) Chairman Dr E Ramesh Kumar on Friday, to discuss the various issues faced by trade at MPT and to offer suggestions to resolve them.
Speaking to reporters, (GCCI) Logistics Committee Chairman Chandrakant Gawas and Co-Chairman Sandeep Sood, who met Dr Kumar, said the GCCI stressed on expediting work to complete the NH17B connecting Varunapuri with the Port, as it would ease traffic congestion and pollution in Vasco city.
"The port’s main source of revenue was from export of iron ore. Since the mining ban from 2012, exports have come down and this has had an adverse effect on revenues at the port. The port should look to handle other general bulk cargo to boost its revenues and to ensure that employment avenues at the port are not affected,” said Gawas.
“The port now handles general bulk cargo such as bauxite, wood chips, shredded scraps, etc. It would be better if such bulk cargo are handled at Mooring Dolphins or West of Breakwater and then shifted by local barges as this would give some relief to the ailing barge industry, as the entire barge industry is suffering after closure of mining in the State,” Gawas added.
Gawas said Goa is one of the manufacturing hubs of pharmaceutical companies in the country, with almost all major companies having their base in the State.
"Exports from these companies are quite substantial and this business could be tapped by MPT and GCCI could associate with MPT in its effort to reach out to the pharmaceutical companies,” remarked Gawas.
He informed that doubling of the railway track at the port could increase the movement of wagons carrying imported cargo, such as coal, and export cargo of steel coils, etc.
“We have suggested that MPT convene a meeting of all exporters outside Goa who can use GCCI services, especially in nearby states such as Maharashtra and Karnataka," said Gawas.
Gawas said Goa was badly in need of sand for construction activity, but said only one ship carrying 50,000 MT of sand had arrived, but nothing happened after that.
"The previous MPT chairman along with other officers inspected the site to set up a cement plant at MPT and the place vacant between Berths VI & VII or nearby area can be utilized.”
“We have also said development of the fishing jetty under Sagarmala Project will give MPT a nice look and a facelift," Gawas added.
