MPA refuses to raze port area gates citing security concerns

Panaji: After the Mormugao deputy collector wrote to the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) with a request to demolish the concrete gates built at the Baina up-ramp, MPA refused, stating that the gates are installed within the port area and are vital for security.
MPA reiterated that the ramp, which is currently being used by commuters and residents, was built exclusively for the port to move cargo. "The up-ramp at Baina is constructed by MPA for its exclusive cargo connectivity to the nearby storage area at Baina," said a terse letter to the deputy collector.
The port also informed govt that it does not require PWD's permission to build or operate the gates. Mormugao deputy collector Bhagwant Karmali had written to MPA asking for the gates to be demolished as they block access to the flyover that opened in Jan. Karmali said that the gates obstruct traffic and that there are blind spots that could lead to accidents.
“It may be noted that the up-ramps and down-ramps are designed as per road engineering for one-way traffic movement; however, it is noticed that in the absence of signage and warnings by the traffic department, the public is using the ramps for two-way traffic movement,” said MPA in the letter to the deputy collector.
MPA also said that due to a lack of awareness, a few accidents have been reported about damage to kerbs and crash barriers. “The haphazard two-way traffic movement on such one-way-designed ramps is likely to cause accidents, damage to public property, and loss of life,” MPA said.
The port stated that since the gates are within the port area, the question of demolishing the gate does not arise. “The gates are installed within the port area, and hence the erection of gates by MPA is not illegal. The gates are installed within the port area; hence, no permission of PWD is required,” said the port.
Councillors of the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) threatened to bulldoze the gate. Some of the local councillors submitted a memorandum to the deputy collector, demanding immediate action to remove the gate.
MPA chairman N Vinodkumar repeatedly said that MPA has to create gates at the entry and exit points of the port for maritime security reasons.