The Port of Durban
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has relaunched the Integrated Port Management System (IPMS) at its eight commercial ports as part of its digital transformation strategy that is aimed at creating a smart port system by 2028.
IPMS offers vessel management technology and is globally recognised as a system that facilitates efficient vessel monitoring through the automation of traditionally managed operations.
The system provides near-real-time access to operational information, which is said to contribute to ease of decision-making and improved port performance.
The relaunch follows the earlier suspension of the system to allow TNPA to proactively enhance the security controls and minimise the risk of a cyberattacks in future.
TNPA says it is striving to regain its competitive edge in a dynamic industry and that IPMS will aid the transition into the freight logistics digital era.
“We are excited as TNPA’s journey with IPMS continues. The IPMS relaunch charters in new territory. Future enhancements are on the cards for implementation once the system has stabilised and full usage of the system modules has been obtained by all the users,” says TNPA chief harbour master Captain Rufus Lekala.
IPMS enables vessel agents to capture vessel arrival notifications and receive approval notifications online. The system also ensures accurate vessel information is made available on request.
Industry roleplayers will now have access to make online marine service requests and have a full view of the slot system to prevent overbooking of slots.