The Hindu Business Line : ISPS code: DGS mulls inviting US Coast Guard for inspection

TAKING a cue from the Singapore port, the Directorate-General of Shipping (DGS) is considering a proposal to invite the US Coast Guard to inspect the Indian major ports to assess the implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) code. Formulated by the International Maritime Organisation, a specialised agency of the United Nations, in the light of the increasing threats to safe movement of ships, the ISPS code becomes mandatory for all ports and ships from July 1.

The Singapore port, which has completed implementation of the ISPS code, had recently invited the US Coast Guard to inspect the port to gauge the implementation of the new security norms. While this has enhanced the image of Singapore port in the international maritime trade arena, the DGS feels that such an invitation to the US Coast Guard could heighten the image of Indian ports, especially as these are amongst the leading ports in the world in regard to implementation of ISPS code, informed sources said.

"However, this proposal is at a very nascent stage. It is yet to be drafted and submitted to the Government, which will have to give the final clearance. But, such a move would certainly help Indian ports gain more confidence of leading foreign ports, as we have seen in the case of Singapore port," according to the sources.

The DGS, which has been selected as the agency for implementation of the code, has identified all the 12 major ports, 33 non-major ports, three shipyards and 225 Indian-flagged ships, including 175 foreign going vessels, to be covered under the new code. "The progress so far is encouraging. While verification on 160 out of the 175 foreign going Indian vessels is completed, the major ports are in the process of receiving the final compliance certificates," an official engaged in the implementation process told Business Line.

However, even while the Indian ports and ships are in the final stages of implementation of the code, the trade appears to be still confused as to what would be the ramifications of the new security regime. With most of the major ports not having fully explained to their respective trade regarding the changes in the day-to-day operation from the standpoint of security, the trade still has a volley of questions regarding implementation of the code, even though it comes into effect after 16 days. "For example, the Mumbai port is insisting that all the drivers who transport the cargoes into the port should have photo identity, without which the vehicles cannot gain entry into the port. The port will have a facility to prepare the identity at the gate, but this will take time, which could lead to congestion at the entrance, given the fact that thousands of vehicles turn up at the port every day," said a shipping agent.

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