The recent news about the installation of a Mobile X-Ray Container Scanning System (MXCS) at Paradip Port has caught attention. This development takes place near the Paradeep International Cargo Terminal (PICT). The MXCS is set up under the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) initiative with the goal of reducing the physical examination time and dwell time of containers at the Port.
Key Information about the Installation
This installation comes with several significant features. Primarily, it aims to streamline the logistics process, addressing issues related to time-effectiveness and efficiency of business operations at the port.
The MXCS has been installed as part of the EoDB initiative. The primary objective of this initiative is to reduce the time taken for physical inspection and ‘dwell time’ of containers at the port. ‘Dwell time’ refers to the time that a container spends at a port from arrival until it’s loaded on a ship.
One of the key motivations behind the installation of the MXCS is to facilitate the transport of unshredded metallic scrap materials in containers through the port. This meets a long-standing requirement of the hinterland Industries that rely heavily on the import and export of such materials.
Significance of the MXCS Installation
The installation of the MXCS is expected to have a significant impact on business operations in the region, particularly for those involved in the EXIM (Export-Import) trade. It is anticipated that this development will boost the volume of containers handled at Paradip Port.
Moreover, the MXCS will contribute to reducing the logistic costs associated with cargo handling. This, in turn, will create a more conducive environment for business, ultimately benefiting the EXIM trade in the area.
About Paradip Port
Paradip Port holds strategic importance due to its location and capabilities. It is a natural, deep-water port located on the East coast of India. Specifically, it is at the confluence of the Mahanadi river and the Bay of Bengal in Odisha.
The port is situated 210 nautical miles south of Kolkata and 260 nautical miles north of Visakhapatnam. It is administered by the Paradip Port Trust (PPT), which operates under the Major Port Trusts Act, 1963. PPT falls under the purview of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.
Paradip Port was commissioned back in 1966, initially serving as a mono commodity port for the export of iron ore. Over the years, it has evolved and diversified, becoming an essential player in India’s maritime infrastructure. The recent installation of the MXCS further underscores this ongoing evolution and Paradip Port’s strategic importance in facilitating international trade.
This article draws upon data from the Press Information Bureau (PIB).
Sources: PIB
Last Modified: February 13, 2024