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V. Sajeev Kumar

Kochi , July 12

THE delay in the connectivity of computerised terminal operating software in Kochi Port's container terminal is causing difficulties to vessel operators as well as importers.

Sources pointed out that the impediments in introducing Navis SPARCS, a software for container handling and yard planning, is creating hardships to ship operators in getting computerised invoices, stack planning and vessel planning details, import/export service sheet and so on. This has also resulted in non-delivery of import containers during the peak raw cashew season in the State, they added.

Though the India Gateway Terminal Pvt Ltd, which had taken over the terminal in April 1, had plans to set up the system from July 1, it could not commission the software due to non-laying of cable by BSNL on account of the onset of monsoon.

Due to the delay in implementation, the vessel operators said that they had not been able to get the computer-linked benefits offered by other terminal operators. It is now pointed out that the system could be installed only by next month, and, in the meantime, the IGTPL had employed a private surveyor to supervise for taking tally of the containers and preparing plans of ships. Senior DPI officials, when contacted said that the weather had caused some delays in implementing the system. However, they added that they did not anticipate any delay from the part of BSNL in cable laying as they are also faced with the problem of monsoon.

According to officials, it requires a long cable covering a distance of 1.5 km to be laid to connect the remote pre-staging yard to the administrative building at the terminal so that it can be connected to the software. The incessant rains had also caused some delays such as the physical painting of ground slots in the terminal so that drivers know exactly where to go.

The pre-staging yard will act as a remote gateway to the terminal where trucks will receive prior clearance in an orderly manner before entering the terminal. This will enhance the truck turn-around times and improve the quality of service to the importers using Kochi. Once this system is fully bedded in, it will enhance the efficiency and transparency of DPI operations to customers, the officials added.

As a guideline, the officials clarified that the installation of Navis SPARCS in the terminal will be completed first. This means that the existing gate operation will continue at the entrance to the terminal as it now does.

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