Sunday, December 26, 2021

Domestic cargo ops at MIA delayed due to BCAS

Mangaluru: The domestic cargo operations at Mangaluru International Airport had been stopped for many months as the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is yet to give clearance for the starting of the services.

The Domestic Cargo Terminal is functioning under AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company, a subsidiary of Airports Authority of India.

Selva Kumar M, cargo manager, MIA said domestic cargo was handled by a private firm till June 25, 2020. After it wound up operations, the operations were carried out along with international cargo. However, there were objections from the Customs Department since domestic cargo cannot be handled at international cargo facilities. A new facility was set up close to the MIA.

“We have fulfilled all criteria laid down by the competent authorities. An advanced dual-view X-ray inspection system and explosive trace detector machine has been installed along with a surveillance system. It was completed months ago and are awaiting final clearance from BCAS. We are ready to handle any amount of domestic cargo once it is approved,” said Selva Kumar, adding that low cost carriers used to ferry around six tons of cargo every day from MIA.

Selva Kumar said that 90% of domestic cargo received at MIA comes from a security press in Manipal. The cargo is received at the cargo terminal and segregated sector wise. Later, it is sent via road to Kempegowda International Airport and after fulfilling criteria, later it is shipped across the country. “As a result of cargo moving to KIA, it is delayed for 12 hours. There will be no more hassles once MIA Domestic Cargo is given permission and becomes fully functional,” added Selva Kumar.

26/12/21 Kevin Mendonsa/Times of India

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