The Puducherry Pollution Control Committe (PPCC) has fixed January 31, 2016 as the final deadline for private Karaikal port limited for commissioning of mechanization of coal handlingl, failing which the port will not be allowed to handle coal.
The port, which was commissioned in 2009 has been handling a huge quantity of cargo. At present the port has dust suppression screens to contain coal dust emanating from manual handling.
The PPCC had directed the port to erect a mechanised system consisting of fully automated closed conveyor belt system with stackers and reclaimers by Dec 31, 2011. However, it was complied with the directive.
Taking serious note of this, the PPCC reviewed the issue recently and found that the port had been postponing the deadlines several times
The port had provided the Rs 50 lakh bank guarantee and given an undertaking to complete the task.
The PPCC, in its directive, has categorically stated that no further time extension would be given.
