Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Mar 22: Following directives from the Ministry of Ports and Shipping, the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) has announced several relief measures for port users to mitigate the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

With the war disrupting the supply of LPG and crude oil, the NMPA has decided to waive Cargo Related Charges (CRC) for the handling of these essential commodities. This waiver will remain in effect at New Mangalore Port until midnight on March 31.

Support for import and export

To assist traders caught in the logistical deadlock, the NMPA has made special arrangements to store container cargo that cannot be currently exported or imported.

In collaboration with the Container Terminal and the Customs Department, the NMPA is offering transshipment facilities for container vessels diverted from other ports due to the hostilities. The authority has further announced a waiver on ground rent and reefer plug-in charges for export containers stranded due to the crisis.

A dedicated covered warehouse and an open yard at the SJ Gate have been identified to store container cargo and perishable goods. Additionally, the port has decided to prioritise the handling of LPG vessels to ensure steady supply.

LPG crisis hits hospitality sector

Despite government instructions to prioritise the distribution of commercial cylinders and implement a rationing system for hotels, the hospitality sector in Mangaluru continues to struggle with acute shortages.

While private suppliers such as Aegis and other LPG companies are supplying gas to some hotels, they are reportedly doing so under strict conditions and at inflated prices. Sources indicate that since these companies have storage facilities in Mangaluru, they have managed to maintain some stock, which is also being supplied to Goa.

Confirming the current status, the Food and Civil Supplies department stated that at present, commercial LPG is being supplied only to priority sectors like hostels. Distribution to hotels has not yet started and it will be initiated once the supply improves, it added.