Mormugao Port Authority and Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Government of India, jointly organized a one-day conference on the theme "Port of the Future” today on 05th July 2024 at International Centre Goa, Dona Paula.
Shri. Rajiv Jalota, IAS, Chairperson of Mumbai Port Authority & Indian Ports Association, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest along with other dignitaries Dr. N. Vinodkumar, IPoS, Chairperson MPA, Shri N. Muruganandam, Dir. Gen. of DGLL, Commander Opesh Kumar Sharma, Director (Shipping) MoPSW.
MoPSW has constituted the Neel Arth Vision Implementation Cell (NAVIC) committees out of which Communication Cell has been tasked of coming up with concept note for implementation of 5G network and associated technologies in major ports. The event brought together Industry Experts, Researchers, Professionals, Port Administrators and Executives, and Policy Makers from the Ministry to discuss about the application of 5G technology and advanced Vessel Traffic Management Systems (VTMS) in the context of seaports and maritime operations.
During the event an information booklet ‘Port of the Future’ was also released, which contains information on various topics presented by the Speakers at the Conference, and technical papers highlighting application of advanced AI & IoT technologies to improve core competitiveness of the global ports.
Chief Guest Shri Rajiv Jalota, IAS, Chairperson of Mumbai Port Authority & Indian Ports Association said that the Indian Ports hold immense potential for growth in terms of handling multi fold EXIM cargo compared to the existing capacity and in improving overall efficiency of port operations. He highlighted while implementing the technology such as 5G & AI and advanced VTMS the wisdom from the past experience and benefits from modern technology should be integrated to get the advantage of both.
Dr. N. Vinodkumar, IPoS, Chairperson MPA explained the advantages of implementing private 5G in Ports which will facilitate real-time communication between cargo handling equipment and central management systems improving cargo movement and reducing Turn Around Time. He added that the Government is considering allotment of dedicated spectrum to enterprises which will promote implementation of private or enterprise 5G.