VASCO: Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) Chairman Dr E Ramesh Kumar showed optimism about the ropeway project, domestic and international cruise terminal, Ro Ro projects and ferry service to be completed shortly.
Kumar said these projects will benefit Goa’s tourism. “These projects are on top priority list of Mormugao Port Trust and Shipping Minister Mansukh Mandaviya is taking updates and follows their progress regularly,” said Kumar.
Talking to the reporters on Monday, MPT Chairman said that ropeway project, cruise terminals, Ro Ro projects will be completed soon and these will boost tourism activities in the State.
He further mentioned that the decision to cut down coal handling at MPT is being taken up at a higher level.
The ropeway, which will be built in collaboration with the State government, plans to reduce the commuting distance between Vasco and Dona Paula to 8 kms from the present 30 kms.
The Rs 350 crore project to connect Vasco and Dona Paula through a ropeway was delayed to the Coronavirus pandemic.
Dr Kumar said that land has been identified on both sides and added that the Indian Port Rail Ropeway Corporation Limited has been asked to evaluate the technical feasibility of the project.
He further said that the recent statement of Chief Minister Dr Sawant to reduce coal handling at MPT by half is being discussed at the higher levels.
“After completion of the modalities the reduction of coal handling by the MPT will be put before the public,” said the MPT chairman.
Dr Kumar mentioned that efforts are made to make MPT grow. However, at the same time the environmental issues are also addressed in totality. Denying that COVID has affected the decline in the number of employees Kumar said that the MPT Hospital has played an important role during the COVID-19 pandemic.
