Ministry of Shipping Reviews Preparedness against COVID-19 at All Major
and Non- Major Ports of the Country
[Ministry Shipping Press Release/05.03.2020]
In the backdrop of increasing number of cases of
COVID-19 in India, preparedness of all Major and Non Major ports in India was reviewed
today under the chairmanship of Shri Gopal Krishna, Secretary, Ministry of Shipping.
Secretary discussed the nitty-gritty of the present
scenario with the Chairpersons of all major and minor ports as well as officials
of State Maritime Boards through video conferencing. Officials of the Ministry of
Health and Family welfare, Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry
of External Affairs were also present during the meeting.
Deliberating the emerging global scenario, the
Secretary requested a co-ordinated and collective approach against COVID-19 by one
and all to avoid its spread through sea ports. He emphasised all officials to adhere
to the instructions and advisories being issued by the Ministry of Shipping in letter
and spirit. He directed all ports to ensure availability of thermal scanners and
sufficient Personal Protective Equipment as per guidelines of Ministry of health.
All ports handling EXIM cargo and handling cruise ships have been instructed to
take special precautions and ensure 100% thermal screening of the crew/passengers,
Self Declaration from the Crew/passengers and tie-up with the regional unit of NDRF
for third party check at ports. Immediate instructions have been issued to stop
disembarkation of the crew/ passenger having travel history from the infected countries.
All ports have been directed to procure thermal
scanners and necessary protective gears as required, setting up of isolation wards
and ensuring medical facilities and subsequent treatment availability as per guidelines
of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. It was highlighted that in total
16076 passengers from 452 ships have been screened, so far, at various major/ non
major ports.
Senior officials of the Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare present during this review meeting, explained to the all concerned
port authorities regarding the thermal screening process, detailed health check-up
of crew and setting up of quarantine facilities in coordination with respective
local medical authorities.