CPA fails to launch CTMS

FE Report Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) has failed for the third consecutive time to launch the much talked-about container terminal management system (CTMS) mainly due to its severe space problem. The CTMS is purported to providing the quickest possible services to the port Continued to page 2 col. 1 users. It is based on a computerised system, aiming at reducing the premier port's turnaround time significantly and ensuring a hassle-free port operation. The nearly euro 4.0 million CTMS project was earlier scheduled to be launched in December last, later it was rescheduled for February last and its third time deadline was June 2011, the sources stated. "We have failed to launch it mainly due to a severe shortage of space in the port," said Khairul Mustafa, CTMS project director told the FE. CPA now desperately wants to engage private depots to handle more containers at their respective depots to create more space at the port. "Export-laden containers need to be brought to the port yards 48 hours, prior to the arrival of ships. For this, we need more space," Mr Mustafa added. He said lack of data from the feeder service operators and port users are also impeding progress on the project. He however hinted at the port going "live" from mid August. "We are hopeful about achieving this new deadline." The initiative to set up CTMS at the country's main sea-port was taken in 2004, but the authorities failed to implement the system on various grounds earlier, sources said. This new system will help raise port management to an international standard and the consignees will benefit much from it, port officials said. The CTMS will reduce human contact sharply in the port. Port terminal manager Enamul Karim said if an equipment operator keeps a container at a place for which it is not meant, then the programme will instantly give a signal. The CPA is implementing the CTMS project, funded by Manila-based multilateral capital donor, the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The US-based Navis is providing software services. Navis has installed the same software to around 70 per cent of the ports globally. ST Info of Singapore is working as the main integrator for the project. Psion Teklogis of Canada is developing networking for the CTMS, while local software company DataSoft has been engaged for local customisation and maintenance for a period of five years. Data Soft Chief Mahbub Zaman told the FE that: "There are many users. Registration of all users are taking time. For this, the implementation of the project is being delayed." There are over 4000 port users and all of them have to be registered with the CTMS. Arun Kumar Bhattacharya, deputy project director (computerisation) of the CPA, said it will cover all port users, including shipping, freight forwarding and customs clearing agents and even trucks.