The Hindu Business Line : Kolkata port may improve working of lock gate at Haldia

Different strategies
The short-term strategy is aimed at improving the human efficiency.
The long-term one will focus on the technical aspect of the functioning of the lock.

Kolkata June 20 The Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT) is working out a multi-pronged strategy to improve the working of the lock gate at Haldia dock. The performance of the 30-year-old lock now leaves much to be desired for, working only to half of its capacity, according to a spokesman for KoPT.

"Only three to four vessels can be handled at the lock in single tide," he said. The ship movement to and from Haldia dock, which is river port, is governed by the tidal situation.

The short-term strategy, aimed at improving the human efficiency, presupposes a time-motion study, to be undertaken most probably by one of the IITs. "However, we are yet to select the institute," the spokesman added.

The long-term strategy will focus on the technical aspect of the functioning of the lock. Frequent breakdowns of the lock is a concern to the dock authorities.

Global tender

Therefore, a study by the experts is expected to throw light on the steps needed to be taken in this regard. KoPT is mulling to float global tender to appoint a reputed consultant to examine the problem and suggest remedial measures.

Some of the world leaders in the manufacture and operation of lock-gates in river ports are believed to be already in touch with KoPT and showing a good deal of interest in the job.

The pre-berthing detention of Haldia-bound ships, mostly bulk-carriers and tankers, has been matter of concern to the KoPT authorities.

If the functioning of the lock can be improved, there will be larger movement of ships through the dock and to that extent the congestion could be eased.

Long-term solution

However, for long-term solution to the problem of congestion, only improvement of the functioning of the lock will not be enough. Other measures, particularly construction of more berths and improved productivity preferably through mechanisation of operations, will be needed. "We've also initiated measures in those directions," the spokesman added.

Meanwhile, the Haldia dock authorities have decided to install a closed circuit TV at the lock entrance for 24-hour monitoring and surveillance.