A temporary arrangement has been
made for handling export cargo from the Visakhapatnam airport, pending
completion of the work on the integrated cargo complex.
The Andhra Pradesh Trade Promotion
Corporation (APTPC) is the custodian of international cargo, and GSEC Ltd
(formerly known as Gujarat State Export Corporation Limited) its official
handlers.
At a meeting of the stakeholders
convened by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on November 27, the Customs
authorities had agreed to appraise the international cargo at the GSEC godown
at Marripalem VUDA Colony. Once the cargo is approved it has to be sent to the
airport in sealed containers. The Customs officials had also agreed to send an
escort from the godown to the airport to accompany the cargo to prevent its
tampering on the way.
“We (AAI) have agreed to give the
registered baggage check machine for a nominal fee for use of the exporters.
The exporters, however, have to adhere to specifications on dimensions of the
export containers and weight of each piece,” Airport Director K. Srinivasa Rao
toldThe Hinduon Wednesday.
The Customs officials had
inspected the old terminal building at the airport and suggested certain
modifications to suit their requirements. The revised estimate for carrying out
the modifications has been put at Rs.1.6 crore and three cold storages are also
planned.
“The revised estimate has been
sent to the AAI Headquarters for approval. We have also included some works
like raising the ground level outside the old terminal building to prevent
water logging during heavy rain,” Mr. Srinivasa Rao said.
Union Minister of State for
Commerce and Industry D. Purandeswari, who represents Visakhapatnam in the Lok
Sabha, has also agreed to consider release of funds from her Ministry as
construction of the integrated cargo complex would boost trade and commerce.
Cargo exporters can check with the
AAI for the guidelines and specifications and route their merchandise through
the Visakhapatnam airport.
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