India's Shipping Ministry considering plan to set up barge terminals
The Shipping Ministry is considering a proposal to set up barge terminals at a cost of Rs 119 crore, to step up efficient movement of cargo and reduce traffic congestion in the city, PTI reports.
This is to enhance the cargo transportation between Chennai Port Trust and Ennore Port and to reduce the traffic congestion (in Chennai city), Shipping Minister G K Vasan said at a function here.
On the handling of coal and iron ore at the Chennai Port Trust, which was banned by the Madras High Court early this year, he said the issue would be addressed "amicably".
"We are aware that the locals are affected and environment gets polluted due to handling of dust cargo in North Chennai. Currently, the issue is in the (Madras High) Court. According to the Ministry, without affecting employment of the workers (of Chennai Port Trust) and interests of people, an amicable solution that can be accepted by all, will be taken soon", he said.
Chennai Port witnessed a sharp decline on its net profits for the year 2011-12 to Rs six crore (as against Rs 68.06 crore in the same period of last year) as coal and iron ore handling was stopped following the ban.
Earlier, Vasan distributed Rs 26 crore of financial assistance to 681 persons, all relatives of deceased employees of Chennai Port Trust.
