To augment the scope of the Kollam port, the State government will soon start exploring the possibility of Kollam-Colombo cargo services.
“Shipping company representatives have informed the government that the current facilities at the port are adequate to start the services. The government will consider appointing a special officer to expedite the emigration clearance work, the main glitch now,” said Ports Minister Kadannappally Ramachandran after a discussion at the Asramam guest house here on Thursday.
Nelson Sikhera, senior director of Express Cedars which operates over 200 shipping services, had pointed out the delay in emigration clearance as the main issue. “A decision regarding this will be taken at the earliest,” the Minister said.
To Lakshadweep
There is immense scope for the district if the Kollam port is upgraded, making it a major terminal in south Kerala. The government had earlier held discussions with a delegation from Lakshadweep, exploring the possibilities of cargo operations and cruise tourism between the islands and Kollam. A meeting with subject experts was convened and it was decided to send a high-level delegation to Lakshadweep. Lakshadweep Development Corporation representatives had recently visited the port, which can accommodate ships with a draft of 7.5 metres and length of up to 180 metres. Being a cashew hub, there will be immense prospects for the port as it can soon become a preferred terminal for the transport of cashew, sand and petroleum products, among others.
There are also chances for the district to become a major tourism centre since Kollam is the nearest city to Minicoy Island. There is a steady inflow from the island for education and health tourism, but currently the islanders have to depend Beypore and Kochi for passenger services.
Permanent facilities for immigration and plant quarantine will be the first step along with provisions for refuelling and warehousing. Another recommendation from sector experts is to revise the port fee to attract more traffic in future.
Kerala Maritime Board members Manilal, Prakash Iyer, Port Officer Abraham Kuriakose, Port Minister’s additional private secretary Janardanan and Port Office in-charge Jismon Jacob were part of the meeting.
