Port Blair, Jan 7: The Directorate of Shipping Services in order to improve efficiency and operationalise more number of vessels has taken various steps. Towards achieving the said goals, the Directorate of Shipping Services has put in sincere efforts to optimize the utilization of drydocks. Pre docking preparation were strictly adhered for these vessels which are allotted drydocks slots with respect to the quantum of repair and readiness by the repairing agency including men and materials. This action proved to be effective due to which, the overstaying of vessels under repair in the drydock could be minimized which resulted in drydock slot availability to vessels waiting for the same. While vessels are in drydock, periodic monitoring system were evolved by which the progress of repairs were monitored to ensure the vessels complete the repair works within the allotted period of drydock and undock as per schedule.

With the above initiation by the Directorate, around 87 vessels were provided drydocking facilities during the calendar year 2021. Though due to the pandemic situations, proper precautionary measures by following COVID protocol and meticulous planning the Directorate by addressing various constrains abled to achieve the desired result. While streamlining the drydock allotment and its optimum utilization, the Directorate has also considered allotment to private passenger vessel which are operated in Tourism sector and cargo vessel which are essentially operated to transport cargo including essential commodities to various islands particularly Southern Group of Islands. This consideration is to ensure to enhance the capacity to handle more tourists and to maintain supply chain of essential and non – essential, petroleum products, LPG etc.

The Directorate is further making efforts to address others factors if any towards minimizing the stay of vessels in the drydock which will pave way to reduce waiting period of the vessels for drydock so that more vessels are available for service.