Question : POLICY ON PORTS EXPANSION

(a) whether some State Governments including Gujarat have made a representation on policy for ports and harbours;

(b) if so, the response of the Government in this regard;

(c) whether new policy on expansion of the existing ports and initiation of new ports along the coastal line is resulting in delay;

(d) if so, the details thereof and the action taken in this regard;

(e) the details of ports proposed to be developed by the Government during the Twelfth Five Year Plan in the country including Andhra Pradesh; and

(f) the reaction of the Government to the steep increase in the number of ports in the Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg area?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SHIPPING(SHRI MUKUL ROY)

(a): No, Madam. However, representations have been received from some of the Maritime States including Gujarat regarding their views and reservation over the proposed draft Ports Authority Regulatory Bill.

(b): The views expressed by Maritime States are under examination and consideration of the Government.

(c): No, Madam. No new policy on expansion of existing Ports and initiation of new Ports has been declared.

(d): Does not arise.

(e): The State Governments of Maritime States including Andhra Pradesh have been advised to explore the possibilities of setting up of New Major Ports in their States.

(f): As per Indian Ports Act, 1908, the responsibility for development of any other ports other than Major Ports vests with respective State Governments. The non-major ports in Ratnagiri- Sindhudurg area in Maharashtra come under the jurisdiction of the State Government of Maharashtra and Maharashtra Maritime Board.