‘Port Setu’ launched to digitise tracking of export container movement

The Chennai Port Authority recently launched ‘Port Setu’ to digitise the tracking of export container movement from Container Freight Station (CFS) to Chennai Port.

The system was developed by the National Association of Container Freight Stations (NACFS), Chennai Chapter, under the One Nation One Port Process initiative. This is phase I of the Intelligent Vehicle Monitoring System (IVMS), which monitors vehicle movement using Automatic Number Plate Recognition, Optical Character Recognition, RFID readers, and software integration, including Customs’ ICEGATE.

The primary advantages of ‘Port Setu’ include digitally recording the transit time of export containers and analysing their actual movements and ground realities, according to a press release.

“It provides a common platform for Chennai Customs, Chennai Port Authority, and CFSs to monitor export container movement from CFS Gate-Out to Chennai Port entry and validate transit times against the Custoprescribed timelines,” the release said.

It will also improve trailer turnaround time and reduce dependence on manual verification.

When phase II of the IVMS is implemented, gate-entry processes at the port will become completely digital. Sachin S. Kurve, Chairperson, Chennai Port Authority, said ‘Port Setu’, implemented by NACFS (Chennai Chapter), will offer better visibility of container movement and help CFSs to optimise trailer management within Chennai Port Authority.

M. Periasamy, Commissioner of Customs (Preventive), Chennai Customs, said trailer movement would be streamlined through the digitalisation and automation of procedures, helping Chennai Customs ensure compliance with prescribed procedures.