Chennai port gets modern cruise terminal to woo tourists

The facility, which was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Tourism K J Alphons here on Friday, has four escalators for embarking and disembarking passengers.

Apart from heat ventilation and air-conditioning for the entire terminal, there are ten immigration counters for the passengers. Ten more counters are planned to be set up.

Other facilities such as advanced security system for baggage, cafeteria, international standard rest rooms and adequate seating arrangement for passengers are available in the terminal, which has been set up in an area spanning 2,880 square metres.

“Mahabalipuram, Kancheepuram and Chennai’s religious and historical structures attracts tourists from all over the world. Hence, a need for a state-of-the art cruise terminal is felt. This modern cruise terminal is definitely a great step in attracting passenger traffic with facilities like exclusive yacht parking, single-window (Integrated) clearance of customs, immigration and security,” Alphons said during the function.

A standard operating procedure to facilitate clearance of cruise vessels and passengers arriving at all Indian ports has been prepared in consultation with immigration, customs, security agencies and other stakeholders, he said.

Other initiatives include the standardisation of vessel charges across the country, with the introduction of a uniform vessel related tariff for cruise ships berthed at any port for 12 hours.

Meanwhile, the Board of Trustees of Chennai Port have decided to celebrate ‘Port Day’ during the second week of October, starting from this year. Various events like cultural programmes and competitions were organised to create awareness among the employees and stakeholders.