Kolkata Port working on global safety norm

Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT) is implementing an elaborate safety system to attain the norms laid down under the International Code for the Security of Ships and Port facilities (ISPS).

The code adopted by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has to be complied with by the port by July 1, 2004 to continue international operation.

A K Chanda, chairman of KoPT, said the implementation of the code has been given top priority and the port has already began work on it.

"Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has made a security assessment for the Kolkata and Haldia port and presented a plan. We are discussing it with IRS and it would be soon formalised," Chanda said.

The port has gone ahead even before the plan has been formally adopted and floated tenders to meet requirements. The exercise will cost around Rs 8 crore.

KoPT has to put the security system in all locations where cargo handling is done. This will include Kolkata, Haldia, Budge Budge, Saugor, Diamond Harbour and Sandheads.

The port has to allocate more manpower for security, strengthen physical infrastructure and also undertake procedural changes. For instance, it has to issue photo identity card to everybody entering the port area.

This is going to be an elaborate exercise since the port area were far flung. Given that shippers have a standing complaint about 'mafia raj' in the docks areas, the port will have its work cut out.

Interestingly, the port has to create a security system from scratch at Sandheads, Saugor and Budge Budge since very few personnel currently were at guard at these locations. Moreover, the port has to look after the marine security.

It also needs to install for the first time machines like scanners for containers. Port authority said Indian Customs would have to bear the cost for this gadget.

All these are expected to increase the cost of operation at port. "There is an initial cost and a recurring cost. How much of them are to be passed on users will be decided by competition," Chanda said.

ISPS has to be put in place at all the 12 major and 30 minor ports in the country. All foreign going merchant vessels would be subjected to these security measures from July 1, 2004.

This safety measures had been adopted in the wake September 11, 2001 terrorist attack on US. Director-general of Shipping has been given the authority to oversee its implementation.