Team Herald
MARGAO: The AAP Seafarers Cell on Tuesday urged the maritime professionals of Goa to voice their say over the issue of the grounded naphtha carrying ship Nu-Shi-Nalini.
The Seafarers Cell Head Venzy Viegas said, “The present situation concerning the grounded vessel Nu Shi-Nalini compels me to voice our anger. And if the situation is not handled properly, it will be a disgrace for entire maritime industry in Goa. Therefore, I request all the maritime professionals from Goa to voice your say to strengthen the Administration, such that ongoing disaster could be averted.”
Captain Viegas said that knowing the flammable nature of the cargo, and even by taking into account all the best possible safety precautions, still it’s not prudent to undertake discharge operations in the present open sea conditions.
“The vessel in its present grounded position could easily be refloated and towed away in safe position, may be alongside the jetty and thereafter conduct the discharge operations,” Captain Viegas said.
“Who did a risk analysis to come a conclusion that it’s safe to discharge naphtha instead of refloating the vessel? MPT must give clear answers with proof of the risk analysis carried out to come to this decision! If the State does not take over the vessel by invoking the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) Act, 2001, and take legal steps to prevent the nuisance and damage that is likely to be caused by the grounded naphtha-laden tanker Nu Shi-Nalini, off the Dona Paula coast near Raj Bhavan,” demanded AAP.
