The cargo movement from Mangalore to Lakshadweep is once again in trouble. This time, the merchants have illegally transported petrol, diesel, and kerosene on open cargo vessels to Lakshadweep Islands. By doing so, they have not only broken the rules, but they’ve also posed a danger to sailors who cook their food on the ship. A tiny spark could trigger a fire.
One of the functionaries of the old port said the ships carry petrol and other inflammable items in barrels at night and load it on to the vessels and cover the barrels with tarpaulin.
Since the port officials do not inspect every vessel that leaves the port, smuggling of petroleum has become common. The vessels do not have any firefighting equipment on board. Even if there were any, it would not be of help because of the massive amount of the fuel in the vessel.
Although the minority marine merchants (Lakshadweep) association brought this matter to the notice of the port authorities, they showed little or no interest in booking the violators.
“The port officials are known for letting the violators off the hook every time. I feel that their palms are being greased” said Naushad, a member of the association.
A few officials have been working in same office and in the same department for decades.
“They cancel their
transfers every time,” pointed out the port functionaries.
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