Team Herald
VASCO: The Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) has initiated an investigation into Delta Infra Logistics Worldwide for taking delivery of cargo without the use of a weighbridge while handling of gypsum imported by Indo-Pacific Resources.
The Goa Customs has imposed a penalty of Rs 15,000 on Delta Infra Logistics for issues arising during the management of the same shipment, which consisted of 19,998 metric tonnes of gypsum at Mormugao Port.
In addition, the MPA has communicated to the Customs Assistant Commissioner regarding breaches of protocol by Delta Infra Logistics, specifically concerning the acceptance of cargo without utilising a weighbridge.
The MPA's traffic department has issued a notice to Delta Infra Logistics, requesting an explanation as to why action should not be taken against them for these irregularities. The company has been given seven days from receipt of the notice to respond.
In the interim, Delta Infra Logistics has provided a response to the MPA, outlining their perspective on the matter. The company explained that they typically load cargo onto the barge alongside the vessel; however, due to a lack of Customs clearance, they were unable to do so during the present shipment. Consequently, the cargo was transferred to a plot after the vessel's departure.
To prevent delays in barge loading, the company opted to load the cargo without weighing it, as other shipments were being processed at the port weighbridge at that time. Nevertheless, they conducted a draft survey post-loading to verify the cargo quantity, Delta Infra stated in its response to the MPA.