VOC Port Authority becomes India’s first digital twin for maritime excellence

The V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port Authority has become the first port in the to launch digital twin initiative. This platform creates a high-fidelity, real-time virtual replica of the port’s entire infrastructure, operational assets, and maritime ecosystem.

By bridging the physical and digital worlds, the initiative is set to revolutionise port management through enhanced visibility, predictive analytics, and sophisticated data-driven decision-making, according to the press release.

The platform was inaugurated on 23 February 2026 by Union Minister of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal.

The platform functions by integrating a sophisticated network of advanced technologies, including IoT sensors, GPS tracking, LiDAR mapping, drone imaging, and CCTV networks.

This technological stack allows the system to continuously mirror real-time conditions on the ground, ensuring seamless coordination across all operational departments.

Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson of V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority said, “By leveraging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, IoT, and real-time data analytics, the initiative will enhance operational efficiency, improve vessel turnaround time, and strengthen safety and sustainability while aligning the Port with global smart port standards.”

Beyond simple monitoring, the digital twin facilitates intelligent scheduling for vessels and cargo, directly addressing bottlenecks to optimise berth and traffic flow. The system’s capabilities extend into environmental stewardship by providing precise energy and emissions tracking.

The release further added that the platform includes what-if scenario modeling, allowing operators to simulate peak demand or potential disruptions, thereby preparing the port for various operational contingencies before they occur in the physical world.

The strategic implementation of this project is expected to yield significant efficiency gains, including a 25% reduction in vessel turnaround time. By improving equipment reliability through predictive alerts and optimising energy utilization to lower carbon emissions, the VOC Port Authority is positioning itself as a resilient and sustainable maritime gateway.