New Delhi (NVI): In the wake of coronavirus, the Ministry of Shipping has been taking pro-active steps to ensure smooth running of shipping and port operations, ease the hardships, and at the same time, following the restrictions imposed during the lockdown.
In this regard, Shipping Ministry has undertaken several measures to handle COVID-19.
Some of these exemplary measures are:
1) Thermal scanning
Total of 46,202 passengers have been scanned between Jaunary 27 to April 4, using Thermal Scanners at Indian Ports. Out of which, 39,225 people were scanned at Major Ports.
2) Waiver of penal fee
Each Major Port has ensured that no penalties, demurrage, charges, fee, rentals are levied by the Major ports on any port user (traders, Shipping lines, concessionaires, licensees etc.) for any delay in berthing or loading/unloading operations or evacuation of cargo.
3) Force majeure
The period for completion of any Project under implementation in PPP mode or otherwise, can be extended by the Ports.
For existing and operational PPP projects, the Major Ports can permit waiver of all penal consequences on a case-to-case basis along with deferment of certain performance obligations under the relevant provisions of Concession Agreement.
4) Preparation of Hospitals
Hospitals across the Major Port Trusts have been supplied with the Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) and the arrangement of sufficient staff round the clock has been made. In some Port Hospitals, a part of the hospital can be earmarked for Covid-19 with separate entry and exit.
5) CSR Funds transferred to PMCARES Fund
Ports and PSUs under the Ministry of Shipping have contributed more than Rs 52 Crore from the CSR funds towards PM CARES Fund.
6) Employees contributing from their salary
Employees of Ports, PSUs and other offices of the Ministry of Shipping have contributed over Rs 7 crore from their salaries towards PM CARES Fund.
In addition to this, due to the proactive approach of the maritime administration all Indian ships have been kept in working condition with valid certificates, are adequately manned and are engaged in carriage of goods.
