Question : CARGO HANDLING FACILITIES

(a) whether Indian ports are still lagging behind foreign ports in modern cargo handling facilities;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the steps being taken/proposed to be taken thereon;

(c) whether Colombo port attract more vessels than Indian ports on Eastern coast;

(d) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and

(e) the steps taken/being taken in this regard?

MINISTER OF SHIPPING (SHRI G.K. VASAN)

(a): No, Madam.

(b): Does not arise.

(c): No, Madam. Colombo Port handles approximately around 5000 vessels whereas Indian ports on the east coast handle more than 11,400 vessels in a year.

(d): Does not arise.

(e): Does not arise.