Looking for new revenue streams and to encourage more cargo to move through the beleaguered port, Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) has encouraged fertiliser manufacturing firm Paradeep Phosphates to directly pack and dispatch fertiliser from the port premises.
Paradeep Phosphates imports potash, which is essential for plant growth and crop quality. MPA has now permitted the firm to package the fertiliser and send it directly to farmers in Goa and Maharashtra.
“In continuing efforts of MPA to diversify its cargo mix towards cleaner and greener commodities, we have facilitated the value-added service of despatch of MOP (muriate of potash) fertiliser directly to the markets from the port premises,” said MPA chairman N Vinodkumar.
Paradeep Phosphates has so far dispatched 440 bags of raw fertiliser weighing 22.5 tonnes to Quepem and Margao for distribution to farmers.
The move is expected to bring down costs for the fertiliser manufacturer while also benefiting the MPA by bringing in more revenue.
“We are helping them to reducing transportation costs and time so it may bring down costs for the farmers, and the port could also earn revenue from storage charges and cargo movement if more raw material is imported. Our endeavour is to give the best services at the best cost to the end user,” said Rai.
