MUMBAI: An accident had occurred on 5th January near Gateway of India where in water had entered into a small boat but fortunately all the passenger were evacuated well in time. One reason for mishap was that the boat was more than 40 years old. Secondly, the survey work was not appropriately done by authorities.

In Mumbai Harbour, more than 400 water transport resources are there, which include Ferry boats, Tugs, small-large vessels etc.  Presently they are being surveyed by Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB). Previously, same work used to be done by Central Government's undertaking viz., Mercantile Marine Department (MMD).  MMD were having crew of senior Marine Engineers, whereas with MMB,

the situation is contrary.   Hence, for the safety of lakhs of water transport passengers, if this work is carried out through MbPT, then, such accidents can be averted.

This demand was place by Mr. Chandrakant Mokal, President of All India Passengers Association with MbPT Chairman Mr. Sanjay Bhatia, IAS. The Chairman promised the delegation of All India Passengers' Association that the matter would be discussed with Eastern Water front Development Committee and assured all the necessary cooperation. 

Similarly, another demand was made by the delegation of installing adequate cool drinking water facility at New Ferry Wharf - Passengers Terminal. Also regularly cleaning of area from New Ferry wharf to Malet Bunder.

They also urged that while deciding Water transport Passengers tariff rates, All India Passengers Association should be taken into confidence. Adequate Street lights should be installed at Mahul Salt Pan Road to avoid any inconvenience was further demanded. Shri Sanjay Bhatia, IAS, assured the delegation of necessary co-operation in the matter raised by Association, said a release.