Engineering and port technology specialist Cavotec has secured a major contract to supply and install India’s first automated mooring system at Gateway Terminals India (GTI), also known as APM Terminals Mumbai, located within Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA).
The integration of Cavotec’s automated vacuum-based mooring technology, MoorMaster, marks a significant milestone in Indian port infrastructure automation. The system replaces traditional manual mooring lines with hydraulic vacuum pads, streamlining vessel berthing operations at one of India's busiest container gateways.
Key Operational Highlights & Infrastructure Upgrades
Drastic Reduction in Mooring Times: The MoorMaster system secures vessel hulls within seconds using vacuum pads, cutting vessel mooring times from 30-45 minutes down to less than 30 seconds upon berth alignment.
Enhanced Safety & Vessel Stability: Eliminating high-tension synthetic and wire mooring lines removes the risk of snap-back accidents, significantly boosting quay safety. The system continuously holds vessels steady against wave surges and passing vessel wash, improving crane crane-handling efficiency.
Decarbonization & Fuel Savings: Faster mooring allows ships to shut down main engines immediately upon arrival, reducing auxiliary fuel consumption and lowering carbon emissions while vessels are in port.
Terminal Automation Milestones: The installation supports GTI's ongoing digitalization drive, complementing automated gate systems, electric rubber-tyred gantry (e-RTG) cranes, and modernized quay infrastructure.