Mumbai Port Authority is undertaking several transformational initiatives aimed at modernising marine operations, enhancement of navigational safety, sustainability, operational efficiency and development of Mumbai Port as a future-ready maritime hub in line with the vision of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Chairman M Angamuthu has said.

As part of a plan to modernise and strengthen marine assets and operational infrastructure, the port authority is weighing a gradual transition of its tug fleet through the adoption of Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP)- compliant green tug technologies including hybrid and low-emission tug systems.

"This initiative is aimed at improving operational efficiency while reducing environmental impact and aligning with national green shipping objectives," Angamuthu stated.

The port authority has undertaken deepening of two inner anchorages to help dock deeper draft ships. The deepening works will significantly improve safety and efficiency of cargo operations, particularly during foul weather conditions where operational restrictions on vessel draft were earlier being experienced by stakeholders. The improved draft availability will enable handling of larger vessels, faster cargo operations and reduction in weather-related operational disruptions.

The port authority is also exploring installation of virtual buoys and advanced navigational systems within harbour limits to improve navigational safety and continuity of operations during adverse weather conditions.

The proposed system is expected to significantly enhance vessel navigation, channel identification and marine traffic management during monsoon and low-visibility conditions.

Further, the port authority is exploring deployment of advanced technologies for marine environmental management, including modern water debris collection and cleaning systems for maintaining cleaner harbour waters and improving marine environmental conditions within port limits.

It is also examining adoption of robotic and remotely operated firefighting systems for improving emergency response capability, enhancing safety standards and minimising risk to personnel during major marine or waterfront fire incidents.

Besides, efforts are being undertaken for strengthening ancillary marine support services such as bunkering, fresh water supply and ship provisions supply to improve ease of doing business and support marine trade and vessel operations.

The port authority is also coordinating with Customs and Immigration authorities for operationalisation of port leave allowance (PLA) facilities for crew change activities.

It has initiated implementation of Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Systems in line with ISO 45001 standards to strengthen workplace safety, risk management, incident prevention, and safety compliance across port operations. The initiative is aimed at promoting a structured safety culture, enhancing employee welfare and ensuring adoption of internationally recognised occupational health and safety practices within the port ecosystem.

A Safety Experience Centre for enhancing safety awareness, practical training and emergency preparedness among employees, marine personnel and stakeholders through modern simulation and experiential learning systems is also being planned.

The port authority has taken several initiatives towards passenger transport, waterfront activation and recreational maritime activities. Ro-Pax facilities have been provided to promote efficient passenger and vehicular coastal transport to improve regional connectivity. Online registration systems for all passenger boats and harbour crafts have been introduced for better regulation, monitoring and ease of operations.

To improve passenger safety and operational efficiency, safe access infrastructure has been developed at Jetty No 5. Further, a proposal has been initiated for the development of a mini marina near the domestic cruise terminal for organised parking and berthing of small crafts and leisure vessels, Angamuthu added.

Source: ET Infra. Com 

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