Streamline operations at Mormugao cruise terminal: GCCI

MARGAO: The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has thanked Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte and Transport Minister  Mauvin Godinho ‘for taking prompt action to arrest the miscreants who created a ruckus at the Cruise Terminal in Vasco affecting the American Cruise Liner.’

“This is the first time that criminal proceedings were initiated in the shortest possible time and the culprits arrested by the law enforcing authorities. The Chamber is thankful for the seriousness shown by the government in this matter and requests for more arrests and a speedy trial so that a stern message is passed to all concerned,” said, GCCI President Ralph de Sousa.

To avoid such incidents in the future, GCCI has placed a set of five demands before the government, for streamlining operations at the Mormugao cruise terminal.  

The first is a committee be formed consisting of the District Magistrate, Port Authorities, Representatives of the Tour Operators, Taxi Operators, Local Police, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) and all stakeholders be sensitised on the gravity of the situation.

“The Committee should meet periodically and review the cruise Handling process,” said De Sousa.

GCCI also asked that standard SOPs be drawn up specific to the handling of coaches/taxis and circulated to the stakeholders.

De Souza added that the GTDC counter at the Cruise Terminal must be made operational and only registered vehicles should be allowed to conduct business as per GTDC directives.

De Sousa emphasized that the choice of the Mode of Transport should be of the commuter and pointed out that this is as per the High Court Order. Finally, GCCI stated that adequate police protection be provided.