Adopt Chinese model, says Sambasiva Rao

“However, Kandla Port has proved that it can also handle Capesize vessels without spending on the dredging by using floating cranes and barges,” said G Sambasiva Rao.

“Therefore, the use of barges is alternative to construction of berths and increasing the draft and bringing down the logistics cost in Major Ports across India.”

Mr Rao also put forward the suggestion that VPT should procure more floating cranes fitted on the barges which discharge cargo in outer anchorage and in mid-sea into barges and barges unload the cargo.

“Importers were now avoiding the use of smaller vessels and are going for Capesize vessel to reduce freight by adopting this radical Chinese model of using floating cranes and barges,” added Mr Rao.