In-house intelligent vessel traffic services (IVTS), created by the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIM-M), would increase port efficiency and lower costs. Accessibility is limited by the current vessel traffic services’ (VTS) complete reliance on the system provider.
In contrast, the open architecture of the IVTS allows for the addition of additional functionality. Modern technology operated by a skilled crew is a feature of the IVTS. Port logistics will be significantly enhanced by the IVTS.
In 2020, IIT Madras received a Rs10 crore grant from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways to create in-house VTS software. This was declared by Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of State for Shipping (Independent Charge), during the introduction of the domestic software for VTS and Vessels Traffic Monitoring Systems (VTMS). Software called VTS and VTMS is used to control traffic in a port or canal, as well as to calculate the positions of vessels and other traffic or weather-related hazard warnings. By protecting the marine environment, nearby shore regions, offshore installations, and work sites from potential negative impacts of maritime traffic, VTS helps to ensure the safety of life at sea as well as the efficiency and safety of navigation.