State of Emergency declared in Georgia over novel coronavirus COVID -19 will not affect or restricts port cargo operations – Maritime Transport Agency (MTA) of Georgia reports.

“While at this time our primary concern is for the health and safety of all our employees, all ports will remain open and continue to operate in accordance with WHO and Georgian government guidelines,” the agency said in the statement.

The Maritime Transport Agency, however, will continue to impose several restrictions as a precautionary measure to prevent spread of COVID-19 in Georgia. According to the Agency, since March 2, 2020 all Georgian ports are implementing enhanced screening of ships entering Georgian ports.

Starting from March 21 all personnel of Port State Control of MTA are mandatory maintaining temperature checks and screening several times a day.

Harbor Masters of all ports are responsible for maintaining regime of screening of all related personnel, including Pilots. HMs must ensure that personal safety equipment is used at all times while contacting ships.

MTA is in full cooperation with all related entities in Ports. Implementation of all guidelines is also controlled. Disinfection protocols are administered continuously and all personnel are supplied with personal safety equipment. In case of necessity, disinfection is carried out for cargo as well.