Latest news with #VTMS
India Gazette
14-07-2025
- Business
- India Gazette
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launches capacity-building initiatives worth Rs 276 Crore at Visakhapatnam Port
New Delhi [India], July 14 (ANI): Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal launched multiple Capacity Building initiatives worth more than Rs 276 crores at the Visakhapatnam port here today. According to a release from Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the minister laid foundation stones for six projects with a total investment of more than Rs 116 crores with an aim to build new capacity for Visakhapatnam port. Key initiatives include the construction of a B-Ramp within the port area (Rs 33.49 crore) and a new finger jetty and wharf in the fishing harbour (Rs 32.61 crore) to boost cargo handling and support the local fishing community. Further enhancing operational efficiency, the port will see two additional breasting dolphins at OSTT (Rs 20.87 crore) and an additional ramp linking the Ambedkar Centenary Flyover to the L-17 corridor (Rs 8.31 crore). To promote cruise tourism and public engagement, a public promenade near the cruise terminal (Rs 15.90 crore) will be developed, alongside the construction of toilet blocks at 15 locations across the port area (Rs 5.50 crore), improving amenities and accessibility. Together, these projects aim to strengthen Visakhapatnam Port's role as a modern, inclusive, and globally competitive maritime hub. Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal said, 'Guided by the transformative vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, Visakhapatnam Port is undergoing significant capacity enhancement with projects totalling over Rs 276 crore. These efforts are set to modernise port infrastructure, improve cargo handling efficiency, and elevate the port's status as a leading global maritime hub. These new projects reflect Modi Government's unwavering commitment to building world-class port infrastructure that drives economic growth, creates opportunities, and strengthens India's maritime capabilities. By laying the foundation for modern, efficient, and people-centric facilities, we are taking another step towards realising our vision of a globally competitive and sustainable port sector that will benefit generations to come.' In a significant boost to modernisation and efficiency, Sonowal inaugurated a series of projects at Visakhapatnam Port with a total outlay of Rs 159.96 crore. Highlights include the commissioning of the new Oil Refinery Berth-2 (Rs 42 crore) and installation of advanced fire-fighting facilities at the OSTT Berth (Rs 27 crore), enhancing safety and capacity for liquid cargo. Infrastructure upgrades feature a covered storage shed at the R-10 area (Rs 22.50 crore), road improvements from WQ-5 Junction to Essar Junction (Rs 19.69 crore), and expansion of the customs boundary wall (Rs 7.17 crore). Strengthening digital systems, the port will introduce a new RFID gate management system (Rs 15 crore), a modern Port Operating System (Rs 10.77 crore), and a state-of-the-art Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) worth Rs 15.83 crore, reaffirming Visakhapatnam Port's commitment to smarter, safer, and more efficient maritime operations. 'Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the inauguration of projects worth Rs 159.96 crore at Visakhapatnam Port is a major stride towards realising India's vision of becoming a global maritime leader. From the new Oil Refinery Berth-2 and advanced fire-fighting systems to smart solutions like RFID-based gate management and Vessel Traffic Management Systems, these initiatives are set to boost safety, efficiency, and capacity. Together, they not only strengthen Visakhapatnam Port's competitiveness but also create jobs, facilitate trade, and position India more prominently in global shipping and logistics networks,' said Sarbananda Sonowal. Speaking on the occasion, Shantanu Thakur, Union Minister of State for MoPSW, said, 'Under the dynamic leadership of PM Narendra Modi ji, the launch of these transformative projects at Visakhapatnam Port marks a significant step towards building world-class maritime infrastructure. With advanced systems like VTMS and modern facilities, we are enhancing safety, efficiency, and competitiveness, taking us closer to realising India's vision of becoming a global maritime leader.' M. Sribharat, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) for Visakhapatnam, stated that under the leadership of N. Chandrababu Naidu, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, 'port-led development will accelerate in the state'. He mentioned that the state is currently developing four new ports and proposed establishing a port every 50 km along the coastline. T.K. Ramachandran, IAS, Secretary, MoPSW, spoke on bridging infrastructure gaps, overcoming fragmented logistics, and improving the use of maritime routes. He highlighted the One Nation-One Port Process (ONOPP) for process standardisation, a BIMSTEC wide maritime skill certification system, and measures to boost coastal shipping and cruise tourism. Dr Angamuthu, Chairman of Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) highlighted Visakhapatnam's strategic maritime significance and called for collaboration in port-led industrialisation, digital integration, and maritime skill development and emphasised the role of VPA as a hub for maritime education through the Centre of Excellence in Maritime Skill Development (CEMS). The Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS), operational from July 10, 2025, is backed by a 15-year radar feed from the Indian Coast Guard and integrates AIS, radar, and CCTV monitoring of all crafts within port limits, while also supplying IVTS format data to NMDAC, Noida. During the press briefing, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the dynamic potential of Visakhapatnam Port and commended the dedicated leadership of Dr. M. Angamuthu along with the hardworking team of VPA in driving the port's performance to rank among the top in the country. Sonowal further acknowledged the visionary support of CM N. Chandrababu Naidu for advancing the maritime sector, especially in shipbuilding and state port development. The event was also attended by the Union Minister of State, MoPSW, Shantanu Thakur; the Secretary of MoPSW, TK Ramachandran; the MP of Visakhapatnam, M Sribharat; the Secretary General of BIMSTEC, Indra Mani Pandey and the Chairman of Visakhapatnam Port Authority, Dr M Angamuthu among other officials of the government. (ANI)
Business Recorder
28-06-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
PNSC eyes $700mn freight earnings amid fleet expansion
Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) is expected to generate an estimated $700 million in freight earnings by expanding its cargo fleet to 34 vessels over the next three years. This was announced during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, on Friday, read a statement. During the meeting, the minister was informed that PNSC currently manages approximately 11% of the country's cargo by volume and 4% by value. The national carrier is now targeting to increase its cargo handling to 52% by volume and 43% by value (excluding containerised cargo) within three years. PNSC is Pakistan's national flag carrier, primarily engaged in the transportation of dry bulk and liquid cargoes globally. It was established in 1979 by merging the National Shipping Corporation (NSC) and the Pakistan Shipping Corporation. PNSC operates under the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Government of Pakistan. Presenting the business plan, the federal minister emphasised the need for PNSC to evolve into a globally competitive, technologically advanced, and environmentally sustainable organisation aligned with international maritime benchmarks. Pakistan to lease ships for PNSC to curb $4bn forex drain As per the statement, the government plans a phased renewal and expansion of PNSC's ageing fleet to enhance cargo capacity, fuel efficiency, and compliance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards, including those governing carbon emissions and ballast water management. The minister proposed deepening collaboration between PNSC, Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works, and local industries for the domestic construction of modern cargo vessels, oil tankers, and container carriers. To fund the modernisation efforts, the plan advocates leveraging public-private partnerships, maritime leasing models, and tapping into global green shipping funds. The minister also underscored the need for digital transformation in maritime operations. This includes the adoption of platforms such as Pakistan Single Window (PSW), Vessel Traffic Management Systems (VTMS), blockchain-based documentation, e-logistics solutions, and real-time cargo tracking systems—measures aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency, and security. Environmental sustainability remains central to the reform agenda.
Express Tribune
28-06-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
PNSC eyes $700m freight earnings in 3 years
Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) aims to generate an estimated $700 million in freight earnings by expanding its fleet to 34 vessels over the next three years, according to a statement released on Friday. The announcement was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, outlining a new business strategy to revitalise the maritime and logistics sectors. The meeting was informed that PNSC currently handles around 11% of the country's cargo by volume and 4% by value. The national carrier is now targeting a substantial increase in its cargo share to 52% by volume and 43% by value, excluding containerised cargo, within three years. Presenting a forward-looking business plan, the minister described PNSC as central to enhancing Pakistan's maritime capabilities. He stressed the need for it to evolve into a globally competitive, technologically advanced, and environmentally sustainable entity aligned with international maritime standards. A key feature of the plan is the phased renewal and expansion of PNSC's aging fleet to boost cargo capacity, improve fuel efficiency, and ensure compliance with International Maritime Organisation (IMO) standards, including regulations on carbon emissions and ballast water management. To promote self-reliance, the minister proposed stronger collaboration between PNSC, Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works, and local industries to enable domestic construction of modern cargo ships, oil tankers, and container vessels. This initiative is expected to generate skilled employment, strengthen local supply chains, and revive Pakistan's shipbuilding sector. The expansion plan also recommends leveraging public-private partnerships, maritime leasing models, and international green shipping funds to support modernisation without burdening the national budget. Digital transformation was highlighted as another key priority. The plan includes adoption of the Pakistan Single Window (PSW), Vessel Traffic Management Systems (VTMS), blockchain-based documentation, e-logistics solutions, and real-time cargo tracking to improve transparency and operational efficiency. Environmental sustainability is central to the agenda, with PNSC set to adopt cleaner fuels, retrofit vessels for energy efficiency, and align with global decarbonisation goals. Chaudhry reaffirmed PNSC's strategic role in securing maritime sovereignty, economic stability, and resilient supply chains amid global uncertainty.
The Sun
11-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
SPPP unveils plan for new petroleum terminal, upgrades
GEORGE TOWN: The Northern Petroleum Terminal (NPT) will be developed under the Penang Port master plan currently being drawn up. Penang Port Commission (SPPP) chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said the NPT will be constructed at the port installation and will operate as a bulk petroleum storage facility designed to accommodate medium-range class tankers. He said the NPT will be built alongside the North Butterworth Container Terminal (NBCT) expansion, which involves 322.83 hectares of reclaimed land. 'The proposed development of these projects is in line with the Penang Port master plan developed by the SPPP,' he said in a statement today in conjunction with Transport Minister Anthony Loke's visit to Penang Port in Butterworth yesterday. Yeoh also said the development plan includes infrastructure upgrades at the Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda (PRTU) ferry terminal, which will be rejuvenated with a modern concept to enhance visitor comfort and satisfaction, ultimately improving operational productivity. He said the commercial area will have an open-air parking area, a sea-view observatory deck, a food and beverage centre, a garden bridge, and other commercial activities with the potential to attract local and international tourists. Additionally, he said the extension of the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) will allow Oasis-class cruise ships to dock simultaneously with a maximum capacity of 12,000 passengers. 'Furthermore, ferry services will also be improved with four new ferries and upgrades to the Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) and PRTU terminals to improve public transport connectivity,' he added. Yeoh also said the SPPP has implemented the vessel traffic management system (VTMS), transforming manual traffic control into a more efficient shipping traffic control system to ensure a safer operating environment. Besides handling cargo imported and exported by sea, he said Penang Port also manages cargo via rail transport, with a 561-metre rail siding capacity at NBCT to handle up to 33 wagons at one time. He said the federal government has planned to extend the rail siding to 1,051 metres, which will allow 50 wagons to be handled at one time, a project currently being pursued in collaboration with various relevant parties. Loke was on a one-day working visit to Penang yesterday. He was briefed on the Penang Port development plan, visited the VTMS control tower, and toured the Penang Ferry Museum located at Tanjong City Marina.
The Sun
11-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Northern Petroleum Terminal to be built in Penang
GEORGE TOWN: The Northern Petroleum Terminal (NPT) will be developed under the Penang Port master plan currently being drawn up. Penang Port Commission (SPPP) chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said the NPT will be constructed at the port installation and will operate as a bulk petroleum storage facility designed to accommodate medium-range class tankers. He said the NPT will be built alongside the North Butterworth Container Terminal (NBCT) expansion, which involves 322.83 hectares of reclaimed land. 'The proposed development of these projects is in line with the Penang Port master plan developed by the SPPP,' he said in a statement today in conjunction with Transport Minister Anthony Loke's visit to Penang Port in Butterworth yesterday. Yeoh also said the development plan includes infrastructure upgrades at the Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda (PRTU) ferry terminal, which will be rejuvenated with a modern concept to enhance visitor comfort and satisfaction, ultimately improving operational productivity. He said the commercial area will have an open-air parking area, a sea-view observatory deck, a food and beverage centre, a garden bridge, and other commercial activities with the potential to attract local and international tourists. Additionally, he said the extension of the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) will allow Oasis-class cruise ships to dock simultaneously with a maximum capacity of 12,000 passengers. 'Furthermore, ferry services will also be improved with four new ferries and upgrades to the Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) and PRTU terminals to improve public transport connectivity,' he added. Yeoh also said the SPPP has implemented the vessel traffic management system (VTMS), transforming manual traffic control into a more efficient shipping traffic control system to ensure a safer operating environment. Besides handling cargo imported and exported by sea, he said Penang Port also manages cargo via rail transport, with a 561-metre rail siding capacity at NBCT to handle up to 33 wagons at one time. He said the federal government has planned to extend the rail siding to 1,051 metres, which will allow 50 wagons to be handled at one time, a project currently being pursued in collaboration with various relevant parties. Loke was on a one-day working visit to Penang yesterday. He was briefed on the Penang Port development plan, visited the VTMS control tower, and toured the Penang Ferry Museum located at Tanjong City Marina.
