The proposed draft Bill to replace Indian Ports Act of 1908 has evoked strong objections from the Water Transport Workers’ Federation of India.
The Ministry of Shipping which put the draft bill on its website seeking objections and suggestions is understood have received complaints that the proposed changes would lead to loss of revenue to the major ports.
“Under the Major Ports Authority Bill to replace the Major Port Trusts Act of 19 63 the NDA Government wants to gift away valuable lands and other properties of the ports to corporates. Now with plans to repeal Indian Ports Act, new legislation is being contemplated to weaken the major ports,” federation vice-president V.S. Padmanabha Raju told The Hindu on Monday.
He said provisions like continuing port dues liability as per tonnage, maintaining receipts and accounts, safety and security of vessels, fees for pilotage and certain other services should continue.
Mr. Raju said provisions like denying clearance without payment of charges and collection of hospital charges from ships for rendering treatment to injured seamen should be retained in the bill. The conservator should have the right to authorise the harbour master and any other responsible officer to take decisions on his behalf whenever it was required.