JNPA to launch India’s first automated mooring system at GTI terminal

By Admin

02 Dec, 2025

Transforming Mooring Operations with Advanced Automation
Gateway Terminals India (GTI), operating under the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), is preparing to trial India’s first Automated Mooring System (AMS), marking a major leap forward in maritime innovation. The pilot project, set for deployment at GTI’s private container terminal, introduces a fully mechanised solution to one of the most labour-intensive and high-risk activities in port operations.

Enhancing Worker Safety Through Mechanisation
The AMS will replace the traditional manual handling of heavy mooring ropes with an automated mechanism, significantly reducing the physical strain and hazards faced by port workers. By eliminating the risks associated with securing and releasing vessels, the system promises a safer and more controlled work environment addressing one of the most critical safety concerns in port operations.

Boosting Efficiency and Reducing Vessel Turnaround Time
Beyond safety, the AMS is expected to deliver substantial operational benefits. Automated mooring and unmooring can drastically cut vessel turnaround time, allowing ships to berth and depart much faster. For JNPA India’s busiest container gateway this improvement is a major advantage that aligns perfectly with its mission to enhance port performance and strengthen trade competitiveness.

Optimising Berth Utilisation at Space-Constrained Nhava Sheva
Terminal officials highlight that the AMS could also help increase berth utilisation without requiring additional infrastructure. Because automated mooring requires less spacing between vessels compared to conventional rope-based systems, GTI can maximise its existing quay length. This is especially valuable at Nhava Sheva, where berth space is limited and efficiency is crucial.

Designed for Versatility and High-Speed Mooring
According to JNPA’s technical tender, the Automated Mooring System must accommodate a wide range of vessel sizes from 10,000 DWT ships measuring around 150 metres to ultra-large vessels up to 200,000 DWT and 400 metres in length. Under ideal conditions, the AMS can complete mooring within 120 seconds and unmooring in just 60 seconds, demonstrating its capability to support high-volume, rapid port operations.

Driving India’s Next-Generation Port Infrastructure
This pioneering initiative reflects JNPA’s commitment to modernising India’s maritime logistics ecosystem. By embracing advanced automation, the port authority is signalling its dedication to improving safety, operational efficiency, and technological readiness. The AMS project marks another milestone in India’s journey toward next-generation port infrastructure setting a benchmark for other ports across the country.