MPA and PSA to test new container terminals technology

Singapore's Maritime Port Authority (MPA) and its global port operator PSA International have signed a memorandum of understanding to conduct research and development to test new container terminals technology, the Shipping Gazette reports.
Development of automated guided vehicles for future container terminals to reduce manpower and improve port productivity will be one focus of the project as well as developing intelligent systems to streamline port planning and operations.


The five-year Port Technology Research and Development Programme was announced by the MPA in the course of the Lion City's sixth annual Maritime Week celebrations.


The programme will see MPA, PSA, equipment and technology providers, local institutes of higher learning and other companies developing advanced port technologies for Singapore's container terminals, said the press release.


MPA will fund the programme with up to S$10 million (US$8.02 million) over five years from the Maritime Innovation and Technology Fund (MINT Fund). PSA, together with local institutes of higher learning and industry partners will provide another S$10 million in cash and in value over the same five-year period.
The MOU was signed by MPA chief executive Lam Yi Young and PSA International regional CEO Tan Puay Hin. Transport Minister Choi Shing Kwok witnessed the signing. Joining Mr Choi were MPA chairman Lucien Wong and PSA chairman Fock Siew Wah.


"Through this programme, MPA hopes that Singapore will continue to be at the forefront of technology in port operations and services adding to its development and growth as an international maritime centre," said Mr Lam.
(Source:http://www.transportweekly.com)