Visakhapatnam port logs into AI-led operations
VISAKHAPATNAM : Visakhapatnam Port Authority is geared up to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) solutions over the next six months, as the port attempts to match steps with some of its technologically advanced counterparts globally.
“To better manage allotment of land and effective land utilisation, a transparent AI-based land management system with a dashboard is being planned. This will go live by the end of June 2025,” says Mr. Madhaiyaan Angamuthu, Chairperson, Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA).
Software update
The port is on its way to becoming ‘smart’ with a slew of digital initiatives, including the introduction of a new port operations software, SAP HANA project, electronic measurement book, and dashboard analytics, together with AI and machine learning systems with a command control centre, according to the VPA Chairperson.
The existing port operations software, in use since 2012, has turned obsolete, with no scope to integrate new features of the National Logistics Portal Marine (NLP–Marine), weigh bridges, RFD gate management system, Unified Logistics Portal (ULIP), and PPP terminal operations.
VPA has awarded to a technology provider the work for the development of the new port operations software.
It is also embarking on a transformative journey with the establishment of the VPA IntelliPort Centre, a state-of-the-art command control centre (CCC).
“This facility will integrate advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and internet of things to enhance operational efficiency, ensure safety and drive sustainability,” Mr. Angamuthu says.
The CCC will centralise port operations, enabling real-time monitoring, optimisation and decision making for a “truly smart and globally competitive port”. To empower senior officials, VPA has created a dashboard covering every department’s activities, with drill-down features to identify the root causes of issues, if any.
It has also teamed up with experts from IIT-Madras for two big projects — tackling beach erosion with permanent solutions; and improving the port’s draught to accommodate larger vessels.
“This is crucial because bigger ships mean bigger opportunities,” the VPA chief says, adding, “We’re laser-focused on net-zero carbon footprint initiatives that set the bar for sustainability.”