The 72nd Republic Day has been celebrated by V.O.Chidambaranar Port Trust in a grand manner at Port’s School ground at 08:00 Hrs. on 26.01.2021.
The celebrations to mark the 72nd Republic Day of India commenced with the unfurling of the National Flag by Shri T.K. Ramachandran, IAS., Chairman, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Trust. Thereafter, he took salute from Central Industrial Security Force Contingent (CISF).
In his Republic Day address, he stated that COVID-19 Pandemic has upended the landscape of global Maritime Trade, and in spite of that, the container handling in VOC Port has started to show positive signs from the third quarter of this financial year. He also stated that the Port is taking strenuous efforts to improvise the green credentials by implementing various initiatives like 5 MW land based Solar Power Project, 140 KW Roof Top Solar Power Project, 130 KW Roof Top Solar Power Project, and 5 MW onshore wind farm. In addition, for the first time among Major Ports of India, the Port is in the process of procuring 3 e-cars for use in Port activities. He also stated that the Port is committed to transforming VOC Port as the Transhipment Hub of South India following the approval of the 9th berth containerization project at VOCPT by the Government of India.
While acknowledging the dedicated services, support and cooperation extended by the employees, Officers, Trade Unions, and Stakeholders for the growth achieved by V.O.Chidambaranar Port in the recent past, he sought the full-fledged support of Maritime community for fulfilling the Port’s vision to become a pioneer in providing quality and efficient cargo handling facility in South India.
As the part of the celebration, Shri T.K. Ramachandran, I.A.S., Chairman, distributed the Traffic Performance Awards for the year 2019-20 for exemplary performance of Port users as Steamer Agents, Stevedores, Container Vessel Operators, Container Liners, Container Freight Stations, Custom House Agents, Exporters, Importers and Business Partners. He also distributed the Meritorious Awards to the officers and staff of various Departments of Port.
In view of the COVID-19 pandemic, preventive measures such as maintaining social distancing, wearing of masks and proper sanitization of the venue, as prescribed and recommended by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India were strictly adhered during the entire event.
