Mumbai Port Authority is undertaking a series of transformational initiatives aimed at modernising marine operations, enhancing navigational safety, improving sustainability and strengthening operational efficiency as part of its vision to develop Mumbai Port into a future-ready maritime hub.
Chairman M Angamuthu said the initiatives are aligned with the broader vision of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to promote greener, safer and technologically advanced port operations across the country.
As part of its marine modernisation roadmap, the port authority is planning a phased transition of its tug fleet under the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), with a focus on adopting hybrid and low-emission green tug technologies.
“This initiative is aimed at improving operational efficiency while reducing environmental impact and aligning with national green shipping objectives,” Angamuthu stated.
To enhance vessel handling capability, the port authority has undertaken the deepening of two inner anchorages to accommodate deeper-draft vessels. The move is expected to significantly improve cargo handling safety and operational efficiency, especially during adverse weather conditions when draft restrictions previously impacted port users.
The improved draft availability will enable the handling of larger vessels, faster cargo operations and reduced weather-related disruptions, thereby strengthening Mumbai Port’s competitiveness in maritime trade.
In a further push towards smart marine navigation, the port authority is exploring the installation of virtual buoys and advanced navigational systems within harbour limits. The proposed systems are expected to improve vessel navigation, channel identification and marine traffic management during monsoon and low-visibility conditions.
Mumbai Port Authority is also examining the deployment of advanced environmental technologies, including modern debris collection and water-cleaning systems, to maintain cleaner harbour waters and improve marine environmental conditions within port limits.
To strengthen emergency preparedness and waterfront safety, the port authority is considering the adoption of robotic and remotely operated firefighting systems aimed at improving response capability while minimising risks to personnel during major marine or waterfront fire incidents.
Efforts are also underway to strengthen ancillary marine support services such as bunkering, freshwater supply and ship provisions to improve ease of doing business and support vessel operations.
In coordination with Customs and Immigration authorities, the port authority is working towards operationalisation of Port Leave Allowance (PLA) facilities to facilitate crew change activities.
On the occupational safety front, Mumbai Port Authority has initiated implementation of Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Systems aligned with ISO 45001 standards to strengthen workplace safety, risk management, incident prevention and compliance across port operations.
The authority is also planning a dedicated Safety Experience Centre featuring simulation-based and experiential learning systems to improve safety awareness, emergency preparedness and practical training for employees, marine personnel and stakeholders.
In the passenger transport and waterfront development segment, the port authority has introduced Ro-Pax facilities to promote efficient passenger and vehicular coastal transport and improve regional connectivity.
Online registration systems for passenger boats and harbour crafts have also been introduced to improve regulation, monitoring and operational convenience.
To further improve passenger safety and efficiency, safe access infrastructure has been developed at Jetty No. 5. Additionally, a proposal has been initiated for the development of a mini marina near the domestic cruise terminal to facilitate organised parking and berthing of small crafts and leisure vessels.
The initiatives collectively reflect Mumbai Port Authority’s long-term strategy to position Mumbai Port as a technologically advanced, environmentally sustainable and globally competitive maritime gateway.
