DCI to augment Dredging efforts at approach route to Haldia Port

 
Lok Sabha 

The Union Minister of Shipping, Shri G. K. Vasan informed Lok Sabha in a written reply today that the depths of the two primary bars, Jellingham and Auckland, leading to Haldia Dock Complex under Kolkata Port Trust, have been decreasing gradually. 

The reply further stated that as a short term measure, Dredging Corporation of India (DCI) Limited has deployed additional dredgers at Haldia since November, 2008 towards maintenance of the depth and presently, seven DCI dredgers are working in the Jellingham and Auckland areas. In addition, efforts are also being made by Dredging Corporation of India to mobilize two hired dredgers towards augmenting its dredging effort in the Haldia channel. 

As a long term solution to the depth problem, Kolkata Port Trust, on the strength of the recommendations of National Institute of Ocean Technology, had drawn up a scheme comprising Capital Dredging & River Training works within the river (Haldia & Rangafalla Channel) for improvement of draught in the Hugli estuary. The scheme is being revalidated by Water And Power Consultancy Service - Water & Power Research Station through mathematical model study in the light of present bathymetry as well as hydro-dynamic condition of the river. The Revalidation report along with fresh recommendations will be available by the end of October, 2009.