India is set to introduce automated vessel mooring at a container terminal for the first time. Cavotec will install its MoorMaster system at Gateway Terminals India at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Navi Mumbai.
The project includes 18 automated vacuum mooring units. The system will replace conventional mooring lines with shore-mounted equipment that secures vessels to the berth using vacuum pads.
Cavotec says MoorMaster can secure a ship in less than 30 seconds. The system is particularly relevant for GTI because the terminal operates along a 712-metre quay with limited room for waterfront expansion. Automated mooring could improve berth utilisation and allow the terminal to handle larger vessels without a major quay extension.
The project also aims to reduce vessel turnaround times. GTI currently handles about 2.18 million TEU annually and is targeting capacity of around 3 million TEU.
The system will initially operate at one berth before expanding to a second. Operations are expected to begin by the end of 2027.
The JNPA project will bring greater automation to one of India’s busiest container gateways. It will allow GTI to make more intensive use of its existing berth infrastructure rather than relying solely on physical expansion.
