Wärtsilä and Tanger Med have launched a new Port Management Information System (PMIS) as part of a wider commitment to accelerate maritime digitalisation.
In a statement, the parties said they will look to implement Just-in-Time (JIT) solutions, machine learning and artificial learning (AI), as well as other innovative solutions.
This partnership positions Tanger Med and Wärtsilä as champions of the Smart Marine ecosystem, whereby data exchange will improve operational efficiency, port safety, and environmental sustainability in shipping, including reducing carbon and greenhouse gas emissions.
The new PMIS aims at addressing the needs of the leading maritime liners and alliances calling at Tanger Med Port Complex, to optimise their vessel calls and to use standardised master and event data.
The joint initiative includes the delivery and installation of a Wärtsilä Navi-Harbour VTS System comprising PortLink Port Management Information System, IALA Advanced Coastal Surveillance Radars, VHF Radio Sub-System, Automatic Identification System, Operator Workstation, Network Systems, Ancillary Equipment and a five-year service and support contract.
Tanger Med has acquired some of the most advanced technology through developing its own Port Community System, which offers a range of services including port call optimisation, vessel traffic services, slot reservation and call priorities management, pilot dispatch solution and traceability.
This Wärtsilä Navi-Harbour VTS System and installation of Wärtsilä Navi-Port, which enables JIT arrival, will accelerate the project.
JIT reduces the need for vessels to wait at anchorage, bringing down congestion and the risk of collisions, also lessening GHG and carbon emissions. Plus, the new PMIS digitalises the entire port-call process, reducing chances of human error and increasing efficiencies.
Ridouan Boulaich IT Director, Tanger Med said, “Tanger Med is taking another step by teaming up with Wärtsilä to develop its new PMIS.
“This partnership aims to support the port’s current efforts to become a leading smart port equipped with the latest technologies to improve operational efficiency, and further enhance organisation of ships’ calls and nautical services, which will be essential as port traffic increases.”
Khalid Samir Harbormaster, Tanger Med, also commented, “Tanger Med is fully committed to optimised vessel calls through digitisation. This collaboration will also reinforce Tanger Med Port’s position as a leading port in this respect.
“We are on course to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions within the port and surrounding areas, which are critical priorities for the International Maritime Organization, IALA, and the broader maritime community.”
Bruce Mills, Business Development STC, Wärtsilä Voyage, described the project as “ground-breaking from a technology perspective”.
“Tanger Med Port has planned for a full and comprehensive smart port upgrade that includes not only an extensive range of our existing Ship Traffic Control products but also new solutions that will enter the market later in 2021, such as Wärtsilä Navi-Port and AIM (Advanced Intelligent Manoeuvring).
“PortLink is an integral player in this project. As a leading manufacturer of state-of-the-art Port Management Information Systems (PMIS), their solution is a modular application designed to facilitate the planning and management of port operations.
“It allows users and stakeholders in the port community to exchange information in a timely manner, eliminate redundant data entry and automate workflows. In Portlink, we have the perfect partner to help bring these ambitions to fruition.”
