CM reiterates desire to promote river transport

TEAM HERALD

bureau@herald-goa.com

VASCO: Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Friday reiterated his government’s desire to promote the State’s diverse river routes as alternate means of transportation to reduce the growing traffic on roads.

Parrikar was speaking at the National Maritime Day celebration, organised by the National Maritime Day Celebration Committee to celebrate its 50th anniversary at BITS Pilani Auditorium, Sancoale

Speaking further, Parrikar complemented the committee for carrying forward maritime activities in the country. “The vast coastline is not fully utilised and the nation needs to strengthen its sea routes to protect it from various threats,” said Parrikar.

Parrikar also said the State government has implemented a scheme for seafarers in the State.

In his welcome speech, Committee Chairman Captain K P Jaykumar said India has a great maritime heritage and history. “The colonial rulers had deliberately suppressed the maritime activity in India during their regime,” said Jaykumar.

Captain Jaykumar praised the State government for starting a scheme for seafarers and said Goa is the first state in the country to cater to the needs of the seafarers.

He further said as part of the Golden Jubilee celebration, the committee will create an awareness of the maritime sector by organising lectures and the theme is ‘Last 50 Years of Indian Shipping.’

On the occasion, retired and present working staff and members of the maritime sector were felicitated by the guests.