Security agencies directed to fast-track port project clearance

New Delhi: The Cabinet Committee on Investment today asked security agencies to fast-track clearances for port projects in the country. "CCI today directed various security agencies to adhere to the timeline of 12 weeks for grant of security clearances for port infrastructure improvement projects," Finance Minister P Chidambaram said at a press briefing here. In the year 2012-13, 32 projects were awarded resulting in capacity addition of 136.75 MTPA (million tonnes per annum) and involving an investment of Rs 6,765 crore.[caption id="attachment_810571" align="alignleft" width="380"] CCI told security agencies to clear their certification for port projects faster. AFP. [/caption] In order to expedite the process of security clearance for port projects, the Ministry of Shipping has formulated guidelines for streamlining the procedure for grant of security clearance, which have been approved the Cabinet Committee on Security. "According to these guidelines, security inputs have to be provided by the various security agencies within a period of 12 weeks, and once the security clearance is accorded, it is valid for three years, unless there is a change in shareholding pattern," he said. Ministry of Shipping plans to increase the country's port capacity to three billion tonnes from the present one billion tonnes. This would involve an investment of Rs 3 lakh crore by 2020, according to the government's maritime agenda for 2020.PTI