Major Ports waive off all charges for ships carrying oxygen, related equipment cargo
The highest priority in the berthing for oxygen-related consignments.
NEW DELHI: In view of the excessive requirement of Oxygen and related equipment in the country, the Government of India has directed all Major Ports, including the Kamarajar Port Limited, to waive off all charges levied by Major Port Trusts (including vessel-related charges, storage charges, etc.) and accord highest priority in the berthing sequence to the vessels carrying consignments of Medical Grade Oxygen, Oxygen Tanks, Oxygen Bottles, Portable Oxygen Generators, Oxygen Concentrators, Steel Pipes for manufacturing Oxygen Cylinders and associated equipment for the next three months, or until further orders.
Port Chairpersons have been asked to personally supervise logistic operations to ensure unhindered movement of such consignments for berthing of such vessel on top priority in the port, unloading of oxygen-related cargo, coordination with Customs and other authorities for speedy clearance/documentation, and expeditious evacuation of oxygen-related cargo from the port.
In case the vessel is carrying other cargo/containers in addition to the above said oxygen-related cargo, the waiver of charges will be on pro-rata basis, considering the overall cargo or containers handled at port, should be provided for oxygen related cargo to such vessels.
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways will monitor the details of such vessels, cargo, and time taken in the port from the time vessel entered in the port limits to exit of cargo from port gate.
The government of India is deeply engaged in handling the crisis related to the second wave of COVID-19 in the country and taking all steps to counter the situation through appropriate and innovative measures.
