To ensure that the docks are fully operational, under the guidance of the Ministry of Shipping/Ministry of Home Affairs, Mr S. K. Mehta, IFS, Chairman, Deendayal Port Trust, recently conducted a meeting with the District Collector to review preparedness in view of the dreaded Covid-19 scare.
Guidelines for the movement of essential port staff and those of its associates were finalised in consultation with the police and state authorities. All efforts are being made to keep the supply chain intact.
All pilots and essential staff are attending duty wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and boarding vessels. A separate Emergency Plan has been drawn to avoid any interruption in operations and essential services like electricity and water. Awareness classes are being conducted by Safety Officer at the operational areas for use of PPE and its disposal in a proper manner. All the operational areas, including residential areas, are being sprayed with disinfectants as a precautionary measure to contain the virus. More focus is being given on the staff and labour at their respective working places for sanitation and for continuous supply of PPE to all. Food arrangements are also being made for the labourers.
To prevent migration of labour and to retain their services, DPT has assured the District Administration that essential food items will be provided and more face masks and PPE will be procured to meet needs during the lockdown.
Instructions have also been issued to the Medical Department to be ready to meet any kind of emergency to contain the virus.
