Modernize ship-breaking, says Greenpeace
by The Times of India (India)
16 February 2006 (Rajkot/Ahmedabad) –
Even as the French government's decision to recall their warship, Le Clemenceau, brought about despondency among shipbreakers in Gujarat, environmental watchdog Greenpeace has told shipbreaking associations to take advantage of the opportunity to transform the Indian ship-breaking industry and bring it at par with international standards, in alignment with national and international law, and respect for human rights and environment.
"The writing is on the wall, the industry must acknowledge that competitive advantage cannot be based on exploitation.
There is an urgent need for new vision and leadership in Alang," said Ramapati Kumar, toxics campaigner, Greenpeace India.
"We have written to the ship-breakers' association, offering to work closely with them to ensure that Alang becomes the destination of choice for responsible dismantling of end-of-life ships."
"It is a victory for the workers in the ship breaking yards across Asia who will be benefited by this decision," said AITUC deputy secretary H Mahadevan.
"We will take steps to ensure that the unorganised workers of Alang are aware of their rights and demand improved facilities from authorities."
"We urge the Indian and French governments to use the opportunity presented by President Chirac's visit to create a new model for Indo-European trade, one that equally emphasises economic benefits, environmental sustainability and human rights," said G Ananthapadmanabhan, executive director, Greenpeace India.
He said the French expressed their concern for Indian environment and worker safety, manifested in their offer to transfer technology to Alang. "We expect President Chirac to commit firmly to this offer during his visit to India," he added.
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