MARGAO
There’s good news in store for Goan seafarers employed on the cruise liners and their kith and kin.
The next time a cruise liner docks at the Mormugao Port, family members and visitors of the crew on board the cruise vessels will now be permitted to visit the vessel. This comes after the Mormugao Port Authority issued a circular on November 7 in supersession of the earlier circular issued in the year 2020.
The circular issued on Tuesday by the MPA Traffic Manager states that family and visitors of crew on board the cruise vessels will now be permitted to visit the cruise vessel as per the established procedure.
The Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI), which had taken up cudgels for the seafarers with the Mormugao Port Authority in the recent past, has welcomed the decision. In fact, GSAI president Frank Viegas has expressed his gratitude to the Mormugao Port Authority chairperson for accepting the request to grant shore leave and to allow family members to visit the ship. “This shows their commitment towards the well-being of seafarers. By fostering family bonds and providing much-needed respite to the hardworking crew members, Mormugao Port is setting an example for other ports to follow,” Frank said.
He said the decision comes as a welcome relief for the seafarer community, which often have to spend months, or even years, away from their loved ones due to the nature of their job. “The MPA, in collaboration with various stakeholders, has recognised the importance of crew welfare and is taking steps to ensure a healthy work-life balance,” he said.
Frank added: “Seafarers will now have an opportunity to step onto the Mormugao Port and spend quality time with their families during their designated break periods. This development not only provides emotional support but also enables them to reconnect with their loved ones and recharge their spirits before heading back out to sea.”
Saying the decision to grant shore leave reflects the efforts made by MPA to enhance the well-being of seafarers, Frank said recognising the mental and emotional toll that long periods at sea can impose on seafarers, MPA has taken into consideration their need to unwind, rejuvenate, and maintain personal connections.
“Additionally, the port authorities have also made provisions to facilitate a seamless process where crew members can get their family members onboard as per the discretion of the Captain. Crew Visitors Forms will be available onboard for obtaining Port entry passes for families of crew members, request must be submitted five days before the Port of Call also requires the visitors their full name, date of birth, photo ID number, gender, etc or one can also go through port portal,” he said.
Terming the shore leave for seafarers at Mormugao Port a laudable step towards prioritising the welfare of the maritime workforce, Frank said seafarers can now embark on a journey to reconnect with their loved ones, creating cherished memories and strengthening family ties.
