Important for ports to prepare for any eventuality to ensure seamless movement of trade, says Dr. Samanta
Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) has prepared Disaster Management Plans (DMP) for ports operated by the Gujarat Maritime Board’s (GMB) including those at Alang, Bhavnagar, Jafrabad, Mandvi, Okha, Porbandar and Veraval.
DMPs are essential in helping ports respond effectively and promptly in times of emergencies and ensures that normal functioning of the ports is restored in the shortest possible timeframe with minimal impact, IRClass said on 13 Jan 2022.
“Ports are gateways for our trade routes and are important cogs in the supply chain system. It is therefore important for ports to prepare for any eventuality to ensure seamless movement of trade. IRClass is happy to support and provide our services to GMB to help combat these eventualities,” said Dr. Asokendu Samanta, Divisional Head, Research & Development Division at IRClass.
GMB, in the process of enhancing safety of its ports, has assigned IRClass the work of preparing DMP as per NDMA and NDMP guidelines. Subsequently, a “Master DMP” was prepared considering all GMB operated ports. The ports under GMB have special significance as they are spread over a large coastal area and represent the trade of the hinterland region and the industrial belt.
IRClass has also signed a MoU with GMB towards collaboration for updation and preparation of DMP for all ports under GMB.
While preparing the DMP’s, IRClass conducted several in-person surveys in order to identify the various foreseen and unforeseen risk factors and devised means to best contain, combat and resolve these risks by mobilising the required resources which could include human as well as material resources. This is done by reviewing the relevant documents, infrastructure and interacting with the port officers to understand the roles and responsibilities of the various personnel.
GMB Chief Nautical Officer Capt. Ashwin Solanki said, “GMB is committed to offer it’s best efforts to achieve zero casualty in event of any disasters. As a leading maritime board, GMB places top priority on ensuring minimal disruption to the functioning of its ports.
“Through the Disaster Management Plans we aim to establish a framework for emergency preparedness. We appreciate the professional and timely efforts from Indian Register of Shipping in this regard.” fiinews.com
