Cochin Port has embarked on a comprehensive ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) implementation programme christened as ‘e-thuramukham’. This is an ambitious programme to implement a fully Integrated Port Information System (iPINS) using a SAP – based ERP which will help the Port to

1) improve its business processes and work practices
2) closely monitor the performance in all areas of operations and management and
3) provide improved levels of operations and efficient service delivery to its internal and external customers.

In order to reap the full benefits from automation, it had been decided to go in for an integrated Total solution covering all the functional areas with the focus mainly on

i) Process improvement and
ii) Integration with internal and external systems.

The approach was to go in for proven software products wherever possible to ensure a proven architecture, standard design of the solution, robust security features, processes based on best practices in the industry and integrate the products through a well experienced system integrator.

The scope of this project is quite comprehensive to meet the business objectives and imperatives. Some of the business imperatives are given below:

Traffic through the port is on the increase and Port Operations are conducted round the clock. The strength of the Port employees has gone down considerably. The expectations of the Port users for accurate and quick settlement and cargo clearance are very high. The need for external integration of Port’s systems are dictated by the International Trade compulsions, Customs, Port Users, Banks etc. Ports must have on-line systems covering all the important points of operation and management – need for a reliable and high speed internal network with gateway to the internet for connecting to the external world. The ports’ systems should be secure, reliable and available with minimum down time. Port has to present a “Single Window” for port users i.e. all applications will be integrated so that the departments can share relevant data through the system which in-turn will benefit the port users in view of the business imperatives, international trade compulsions, the port has decided to go in for a total and integrated IT solution.

Sri. N.Ramachandran, Chairman, declared the ‘go-live’ of ‘e-thuramugham’ in Cochin Port Trust in a function attended by the representatives of the trade unions and employees on Feb 7, 2009. The project based on SAP platform was customizedfor Cochin Port Trust by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and was completed in a span of ten months.

By the implementation of ‘e- thuramugham’, Cochin became the first major port in India to work on a fully integrated computerized system. The port is integrating its operational, financial, estate and human resource systems through this project. e-thuramugham will have real time interface with customs, port users, banks and the port community system of the Indian Ports Association. The system will provide single window facility to the trade for filing applications, receiving service bills, payments and enquiries. The Port is using satellite imaging system for monitoring the geographical aspects of the Port. Kochi e- thuramugham will meet the expectations of global standards of service to the shipping and export/import community.