Mangaluru: “Handing over the container terminal at berth No 8 in the Port to private part under Private Public Partnership Model (PPP Model) is not a justified move by the New Mangalore Port Trust (NMPT). Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) opposes for the proposal of NMPT,” said KCCI President Jeevan Saldanha.

Addressing the reporters at KCCI office on Wednesday, he said that the berth has the occupancy of 73.7 percent. NMPT director has given a false statement to media by saying that the occupancy in only 43 percent.

“By handing over the port to private administration many people will be affected. A memorandum has been sent to shipping minister asking NMPT to drop the proposed plan. Instead of the present proposal they can adopt developmental business plans by Rotterdam Maritime Group or by Tata Consultancy Services. A representation has been given to MP Nalin Kumar Kateel also,” he said.

He further said that the import and export sector of the coastal region will affect by this plan. Port is making as income of Rs 180 crore on an average every year by this berth. By handing over the berth to private party will affect the revenue to the state also.

“Already the bid has been called for the plan and the highest bidder will get the berth. The berth was constructed by union government with the cost Rs 400 crore. It was built from the money of tax payers. NMPT’s new proposal is not justified,” he added.

KCCI Vice-President Vathika Pai, Secretary Praveen Kumar and others were present.