India - Kochi port becomes the first e-port in the country

KOCHI: Cochin Port Trust has become the first e-port in India by implementing an ERP project that covers computerization of all its customer
interface and internal back office processes. CPT chairman N Ramachandran said the system implemented by TCS at a cost of Rs 13 crore will provide single window facility to the trade for filing applications, receiving bills, payments and enquiries. The project also covers integration with the port community system, which is being implemented by the Indian Port Association. Though CPT will go live from Saturday, the manual functions will continue till March 31. CPT will be a total e-Port from the next financial year. TCS and CPT have almost completed the training of 3300 staff. Once fully functional, it will provide a real time interface with customs, port users, banks and the port community system Mr Ramachandran reckons that by becoming an e-Port, the overall efficiency of the port will go up. At a time when the export-import volumes are down by 7 % due to recession, e-facility will help port to save cost. He expects a 10 % drop in cargo by the end of this fiscal.