New Mangalore Port’s labor force that handles very important cargo - like POL Products, fertilizers, coal, limestone and high value containers - went on strike on Friday, in order to draw the attention of authorities towards their demands.

The workers asked for implementation of the National Tribunal Award, and the filling up of vacancies in various departments, to effectively handle cargo operations inside the port.

Mr P Tamilvanan, the chairman of NMPT, termed the strike ‘unjustified,’ stating that the port is already implementing the NTA from August 1, in accordance with a deal signed by the management and trade unions. The management will soon convene a meeting with the trade union to sort out the differences.

Seeking the discussion of the issue at the national level, the Karnataka Dock and General Workers Union’s secretary, Mr. Dinesh Achar said, the tribunal award should be implemented as per the terms of reference.

The Canara Stevedoring Workers Union’s general secretary added, “We have told the management that the guidelines of the Government should be applicable to all the ports in the country adding that some major ports have not yet implemented the award.”