VTPMS to check terror, smuggling activities offshore in Goa

Goa will soon have a Vessel Traffic and Port Management System (VTPMS) that will keep a watch on every vessel to counter terror and smuggling activities off shore, officials said today.
The Captain of Ports department, which works for development of inland waterways and minor ports, has submitted a proposal to the state government for installation of VTPMS which is mandatory considering vulnerability of Goa's shores to terror and smuggling activity.
The VTPMS will also provide safe navigation to international vessels loaded with hazardous cargo transiting off Goa coast, a senior official from Captain of Port department said.
He said the system will help to monitor seashore and also river banks providing full proof security for the coastal state.

As per the proposal, the VTPMS will advice, monitor shipping lanes and separation scheme to enforce compliance of safe navigation regulation, assistance to coast guards and other authorities, detection of oil spill and improve overall port efficiency.
Goa has nine minor ports and several commercial jetties.
The Union government is also working on augmenting the inland waterways of the state by constructing more jetties.