Indian Register of Shipping, a leading classification society has prepared Disaster Management Plans (DMP) for ports operated by the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB). The ports listed by GMB for preparation of DM plans included Alang, Bhavnagar, Jafrabad, Mandvi, Okha, Porbandar and Veraval.

Disaster Management Plans are essential in helping ports respond effectively and promptly in times of emergencies and ensures that normal functioning of the ports is restored in the shortest possible timeframe with minimal impact.

Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), in the process of enhancing safety of its ports, has assigned IRS the work of preparing DMP as per NDMA and NDMP guidelines. Subsequently, a “Master DMP” was prepared considering all GMB operated ports. The ports under GMB have special significance as they are spread over a large coastal area and represent the trade of the hinterland region and the industrial belt.

IRS has also signed a MoU with GMB towards collaboration for updation and preparation of DMP for all ports under GMB.

While preparing the DMP’s, IRS conducted several in-person surveys in order to identify the various foreseen and unforeseen risk factors and devised means to best contain, combat and resolve these risks by mobilising the required resources which could include human as well as material resources. This is done by reviewing the relevant documents, infrastructure and interacting with the port officers to understand the roles and responsibilities of the various personnel.

Capt. Ashwin Solanki, Chief Nautical Officer, Gujarat Maritime Board said “GMB is committed to offer it’s best efforts to achieve zero casualty in event of any disasters. As a leading maritime board, GMB places top priority on ensuring minimal disruption to the functioning of its ports. Through the Disaster Management Plans we aim to establish a framework for emergency preparedness. We appreciate the professional and timely efforts from Indian Register of Shipping in this regard”.

Dr. Asokendu Samanta, Divisional Head, Research & Development Division at IRS said, “Ports are gateways for our trade routes and are important cogs in the supply chain system. It is therefore important for ports to prepare for any eventuality to ensure seamless movement of trade. IRS is happy to support and provide our services to GMB to help combat these eventualities.”