JNPA goes full digital with indigenous Harbour Management System

The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), India’s largest container gateway at Nhava Sheva, has officially transitioned to a paper-free environment with the rollout of a comprehensive, end-to-end digital Harbour Management System (HMS). This marks a shift in how marine operations are conducted at the port, prioritising indigenous technology over off-the-shelf global solutions.

According to the press release, JNPA partnered with the National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC) to develop the HMS. The system serves as a unified workflow that integrates vessel scheduling, pilotage data, resource allocation, and IoT-based inputs. By aligning with global standards, the platform also incorporates critical modules for safety monitoring and sustainability tracking.

The launch of JNPA's proprietary Integrated Vessel Traffic System (iVTS) is a key element of this digital transformation. This new system replaces the previous arrangement managed by the Mumbai Port Authority and moves away from third-party service providers.

The iVTS has already begun AIS-based vessel data collection, providing terminal operators and service providers with a real-time operational picture designed to streamline decision-making and reduce turnaround times.

Under Phase-I, which has been active for six months, all ship movement data is recorded via the JNPA Pilot Thagaval App. The application captures comprehensive pilotage data and master’s digital signatures, which are then integrated directly into the port’s billing system (FOCUS) and the National Logistics Portal (NLP).

As manual recording is phased out, Phase-II trials are now underway to extend this digital tracking to all logistics assets, including tugs and pilot launches.

To centralise these advancements, JNPA has relocated all marine operations and allied authorities to the newly established Port Facility Centre (PFC). As of January 1, 2026, the PFC serves as the integrated nerve center for the port, housing the VTS and the Port Health Officer’s office under one roof.

"Digitalisation of marine operations is fundamental to ensuring transparency, efficiency, and safety in a landlord port environment," said Gaurav Dayal, IAS, Chairperson of JNPA. "By adopting an indigenously developed Harbour Management System and real-time data platforms, JNPA is strengthening its service delivery to all terminal operators while aligning with global best practices."

Operating under a landlord model, JNPA provides essential marine services to five container terminals, two liquid terminals, and a multipurpose berth operator.

The release further added that the shift to a real-time, time-stamped digital platform is expected to ensure fairer and more transparent service delivery across these private entities, ultimately enhancing the port’s global competitiveness.