Team Herald
MARGAO: The AAP Seafarers Cell on Monday warned that the global shipping industry is likely to collapse soon due to panic situation and not COVID-19 pandemic.
The cell questioned the fact that as how long will the seamen stays at the seas performing their duties amidst the entire shipping industry in a grinding halt.
The International Chamber of Shipping and International Transport Workers’ Federation have sent a joint letter to the heads of United Nations agencies stressing on the importance of seafarers in the circulation of global trade and the integrity of supply chains. Its’ functioning is a derivative of seamen endurance, physical and mental strength.
One lakh seafarers must change over every month to comply with the rules and regulations. “Defeating the virus must be the first priority, but global trade, in a safe, secure and environmentally friendly manner must be able to continue, too,” said Lim, IMO secretary general.
Seafarers Cell Chief of AAP Goa Captain Venzy Viegas said, “On March 17, the AAP Goa Seafarers unit had requested for a single window corridor and one port on the west coast and another on the east coast to all Indian crew to sign off, but still no action has been taken,” he said.
“We know Coronavirus pandemic is a deadly. But why are seafarers never given the importance and why a solution doesn’t come out immediately?” asked Captain Venzy.
“Global shipping is, without exaggeration, on the verge of collapse. Its’ functioning is a derivative of seamen endurance, physical and mental strength. How long will it take to break down, without relief or shore leaves? How long can an average seaman remain at sea and carry out his duties?” questioned Venzy.
