Major ports to give priority to coastal vessels irrespective of their origin & destination

New Delhi, Sept 11 (KNN) In order to reduce the pressure on rail and road transport, new guidelines have been issued under which major ports will have to give priority berthing to dry bulk/general cargo coastal vessels irrespective of the origin and final destination of the cargo.

The guidelines approved by the Minister of Shipping Nitin Gadkari also provides for concessional port charges whether the vessel is berthed on priority basis or on normal basis, Ministry of Shipping said in a release.

Major ports have also been asked to earmark exclusive berths and green channel for coastal cargo to promote the sector. 

These guidelines issued after recommendations of a Committee, are aimed at promoting coastal shipping to reduce pressure on rail and road transport systems. (KNN/SD)