The Covid 19 pandemic continuously disrupts operations. Does this affect CHCL ?
Port operations are constantly challenged by changing weather conditions, sometimes totally unexpected. Likewise, the governance of such an organisation as the CHCL has the duty to be dedicated and flexible to address any emergency, yet ensure regular and planned operations for rapid execution within a transparent and compliant structure. Even with the pandemic going on, audits and spot checks are encouraged so as to follow up with expenses strictly and bring corrective measures wherever needed. The Board of the CHCL is constituted of chosen representatives who fully weigh the impact that cargo handling operations has on the country’s economy and how it affects livelihoods, directly or indirectly. This dedicated board is ready to be called at any time for crucial decisions to be taken. The Covid 19 pandemic has further strengthened the mission and values of the governing body of the CHCL.
I personally believe in managing by being present whenever any issue arises, at any time of the day or night. These days, this responsibility is even more heightened as close collaboration is essential with other authorities such as the Ministry of Health and the Coast Guard to ensure all safety protocols are being followed before ships reach the port. Once their part is completed at sea, no gaps are allowed when the ship berths at the port. Strict directives are followed to ensure that minimal or no contact takes place with the crew and that crew members do not disembark. However, the CHCL remains on its guard as the port remains a risky environment for a whole set of reasons.
One of them obviously being the issue of drug and illegal goods trafficking. A zero tolerance policy is applied with immediate suspension of any person found to be associated with facilitating illegal activities. The drug trafficking issue is closely monitored to the highest level by the Prime Minister’s Office and the CHCL works in close coordination with all authorities such as the ADSU, Coast guards, MRA and MPA. CCTV cameras and fencing have been reinforced. And, as the volume of cargo transiting through the port area rises, so does coordinated action increase to eliminate loopholes and corner anyone tempted to misuse port facilities.
Mauritius has undergone two lockdowns and there is no saying when the pandemic will end. Can we say that the CHCL has passed the test and proven its capacity to mitigate national shutdowns and ensure continuity of operations ?
If we compare March 2020 to March 2021 figures, we can see that the number of TEUs handled is on the rise despite the lockdown situations. Therefore, there is no denying it, the figures speak for themselves. The CHCL is capable of organising itself to fully cooperate with authorities and shoulder its responsibilities as front- liners providing essential services. Over this past year, we have grown better as an institution to cater for national priorities while keeping our employees safe and our clients reassured.
During this last lockdown, we instantly called a night meeting and dispatched responsibilities to a skeleton administrative staff. We activated the processes to obtain Work Access Permits and organise the workload of the shifts, taking into account risks and restrictions associated to red zone areas. And we had daily meetings with managers to catch any gap and remain highly responsive to any issue. Likewise, as we conduct PCR tests regularly, we are now quick to roll out large scale testing of our employees if needed. The CHCL notes with pride that the communication protocol with ports of the region works smoothly. Recently sailors aboard the Kiara vessel, heading towards Mayotte tested positive. We were duly informed and we alerted the PMO and the Ministry of Health immediately. The CHCL had all of its employees tested within just a few days. This strong response contributes to making the employees feel safe and cared for. And the CHCL ensures it can continue its operations to benefit the country. Our greatest pride is that at no time during any lockdown has there been any shortage of food in Mauritius. Behind the scenes, the CHCL has worked very hard to prioritise ships with the food cargo with the support of all related authorities. The absence of any outcry from the population concerning basic food and shelter is our greatest reward in these trying times. And the CHCL is ready to face any coming challenge with the same spirit.
A zero tolerance policy is applied with immediate suspension of any person found to be associated with facilitating illegal activities.
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