Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 08: The Directorate of Shipping Services has observed that overloaded trucks are frequently boarding vehicle ferry vessels providing service between Middle Strait and Baratang, causing serious damage to the loading ramps and affecting the safe operation of ferry services.
As per the design/stability specifications of the vehicle ferry vessels such as MV North Bay and MV Lapathy, the loading ramp is designed to withstand a maximum load of only 11–12 tonnes at a time. However, it has been noticed that trucks with loads exceeding 25 tonnes (vehicle weight plus cargo) are attempting to board the ferries, which is far beyond the permissible limit. This has resulted in frequent damage to ramps, sudden breakdown of vessels, and disruption of ferry services, causing inconvenience to the general public.
Truck owners, transporters, and drivers are advised to comply with this restriction of 12 Tons while transporting vehicles through vehicle ferry services. Violation of the above will result in denial of boarding on the ferry.
The cooperation of all stakeholders is requested to ensure safe vessel operations and uninterrupted ferry connectivity for the public.
