Lok Sabha Tuesday debated The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024 with Union Shipping Minister Sarabananda Sonowal underlining that the Bill promotes coastal shipping as a cost-effective mode of transport that could lower overall logistics costs while the Opposition flagged central overreach and control apart from its impact on fishermen.

“ this Bill provides the maritime sector a much needed push with a dedicated legal framework for coastal trade,” Sonowal said while introducing the Bill. He underlined that the existing legal framework is only concerned with licensing and registration of merchant vessels and this leads to regulatory gaps.

Sonowal said the Bill is a significant reform initiative that can unlock the full potential of India’s vast and strategic maritime sector. He also noted that the Bill aligns with the National Logistics Policy and promotes coastal shipping as a cost-effective mode of transport that could significantly lower the overall logistics costs.

“Coastal shipping is also a sustainable mode of transport, with much lower emissions compared to rail and road networks,” he said. 

Congress MP Manickam Tagore accused the government of overlooking the struggles of fishermen, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. DMK’s D M Kathir Anand said, “Why should Tamil Nadu beg for what other states are handed? The National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategy Plan is a slap on the face of states’ autonomy. Every two years, the Centre will dictate our maritime fate, ignoring Tamil Nadu’s specific needs.”

Source: The Indian Express 

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