NSB seeks Central aid for ports deepening

Chennai, Nov 18 (UNI) The National Shipping Board (NSB) today sought governmental support to accelerate the deepening of drafts in 12 major ports in the country.

Talking to reporters after the 106th meeting of the NSB here, its Chairman Santosh Nautiyal and Chennai Port Trust (CPT) Chairman K Suresh said the meeting recommended a faster pace in deepening drafts to accommodate larger ships, especially container ships in ports.

Since it involved huge capital, the Board sought financial assistance from the Centre.

''World over these works were supported by the Government. But in India it has been met by the respective Ports'', Mr Nautiyal said and added that the government had taken some steps in this direction.

He also recalled the government's assurance to bear one third of the original cost of Rs 153 crore for deepening the draft at Paradip Port two years back. However, the project cost was revised now, he added.

Mr Suresh said in CPT the draft would be deepened to a distance of 15 metres from 13.5 metres, considering the future needs, while in JNPT at Mumbai it would be increased from 12 m to 15 m. The deepening works would be taken up at a cost of Rs 2,000 crore.

The works in JNPT would be taken up at a cost of Rs 800 crore and the bidding process was on.

The meeting also sought continuance of subsidy to shipping industry, which was to expire in 2007, to enable the industry to have a level playing field globally.

The NSB also sought rationalisation of the fiscal policy for the shipping sector in the context of globalisation.

Expressing concern over the quality of maritime education and training, the NSB meeting favoured early setting up of the Indian Maritime University to provide the specialised manpower for the shore based industry, ship building industry and ports.

The Expediture Finance Committee had given its nod and the proposal would be sent to the Union Cabinet before the bill was introduced in Parliament.

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