Cochin port yet to admit an X-Ray of light

KOCHI: At a time when air and sea ports are constantly under security threat, a project of the Central Government to install radioactive detectors and X-Ray scanners at major stations, including the Cochin port, is yet to be implemented. It is learnt that the Cochin port management is worried over the huge expenses to install the devices. The port has asked the DP World to install the devices.The approximate cost of the device is Rs 1 crore. The detector needs to be installed at all gates through which a container passes. DP World Cochin CEO K K Krishnadas confirmed that they had received a communication from the port management in this regard. “We have received a communication in this regard. Since it is a decision of the Union Ministry, some aspects need to be clarified. Once they are clarified we are reedy to install the devices as per the guidelines of the ministry,” Krishnadas said.     The installation of radioactive material detectors and X-Ray machines for scanning containers was a major recommendation made by the high-powered committee constituted to review security at major ports, which was headed by Cochin Port Trust former chairman N Ramachandran. Following this directive, the Central Government had directed all major ports in the country to install advanced radioactive material detectors. “The Electronics Corporation of India (ECIL), Hyderabad, is designing the device. We expect that all ports could be equipped with such detectors soon. It is a precaution against possible threats in future,” said K Mohandas, Secretary, Union Shipping Ministry.“Once installed, the movement of hazardous materials can be detected without opening the container. The device will produce a warning sound in case of movement of hazardous materials,” Mohandas said.“It does not matter whether the port or the operator installs it. However, all the ports have to get the devices installed,” he said.