The union ministry for shipping and inland waterways has asked all the major (central-government controlled) ports to create infrastructure for roll-on roll-off (Ro-Ro) and Ro-Pax on the lines of Hazira.
Last November, Adani Group’s Adani Hazira Ports Pvt Ltd had created temporary infrastructure at Hazira port to facilitate the Ghogha-Hazira ferry service which ran into troubled waters due to heavy siltation at Dahej, the location where it was first started.
At the recently held chintan baithak (brainstorming session) at Dhordo in Kutch, shipping minister Mansukh Mandviya had suggested that every major port develop such infrastructure which will give a big boost to coastal shipping, the mode of transport which can lessen the burden on highways and provide a cheaper alternative too.
In fact, deputy chairmen of major ports will meet in Hazira on February 4 and 5 to see the infrastructure that can be replicated in their respective facilities.
Major emphasis was given on coastal transport and Ro-Ro and Ro Pax service during the meeting. After the smooth operations of Ghogha-Hazira service, the ministry has identified several routes to start Ro-Pax in various parts of the country.
“The deputy chairman will get to know the nitty gritty of ferry service operations, so that they can replicate the same in their respective ports,” said SK Mehta, chairman Deendayal Port Trust (DPT) which was appointed the facilitator for restarting the ferry service.
