Port Blair, Dec. 2: In light of the Guidelines of Ministry of Home Affairs for surveillance, containment and caution with regard to COVID-19 and subsequent Order by A&N Administration for its implementation, the Directorate of Shipping Services has initially recommenced shipping services to Tourist destinations like Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep. The Administration now after due assessment of the prevailing situation has decided to open up shipping activity in the other Islands also, in a phased manner.  The shipping services would be reviewed every fortnight and depending on the situation, the shipping services would be augmented suitably.

Accordingly, the Directorate of Shipping Services has drawn a new schedule which will be effective for the month of December, 2020. The newly drawn schedule is as follows:-

The procedure of passenger ticketing would remain as per the prevailing system through District Administration office and the travelling of passenger would be subject to Antigen / RTPCR negative test report. All passengers are therefore advised to arrive at Port atleast 02 hour prior to the departure to complete medical and other formalities.

In addition to the above all passenger shall strictly adhere to the following guidelines

• All Passengers shall compulsorily wear face mask properly during all time onboard vessels.
• Passengers shall maintain orderly embarkation and disembarkation and avoid congregation on board vessels and maintain social distancing.
• Consumption of liquor, paan, ghutka, tobacco etc on board vessel and spiting is strictly prohibited.
• All passengers to follow the instruction and guidelines on board as per the advise of Officers and Crew of the vessel