Advancing Indian Port Reception Facilities Through Digital Transformation

Rajinder Kumar; Dr. Yogamala H.L.

doi:10.29284/ijasis.12.1s.2026.193-209

Authors

Rajinder Kumar Research Scholar, Indian Maritime University
Dr. Yogamala H.L. Assistant Professor Law, Indian Maritime University, A Central University under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (Government of India)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29284/ijasis.12.1s.2026.193-209

Keywords:

AI/ML marine application; Port Reception Facilities; Swachh Sagar Portal; IoT integration; MARPOL; ship-generated waste management; smart ports; circular economy.

Abstract

The expansion of global maritime trade has intensified ship-generated waste challenges in Indian ports, threatening marine ecosystems and operational efficiency. This study analyzes India’s Port Reception Facilities (PRF) framework under the Merchant Shipping Rules and national initiatives such as Sagarmala and Harit Sagar, identifying critical gaps in the Swachh Sagar Portal, including data inconsistencies, limited real-time tracking, manual reporting errors, and enforcement weaknesses that hinder effective MARPOL compliance. Drawing on global best practices from leading ports such as Rotterdam and Singapore, as well as relevant European Union directives, the paper explores the transformative role of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in maritime waste management. These include real-time monitoring through sensor networks deployed on waste containers, pipelines, and storage facilities; artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) algorithms for predictive waste forecasting and optimized collection and disposal routes; and blockchain-enabled systems for immutable audit trails that enhance transparency across waste delivery, treatment, and final disposal stages. A qualitative methodology is adopted, synthesizing policy analysis, stakeholder consultations, literature review, and international case studies to propose a comprehensive digital roadmap for upgrading the Swachh Sagar Portal. The proposed framework emphasizes seamless IoT integration, mobile applications for vessel notifications, AI-driven analytics dashboards, automated regulatory reporting, and interoperability with India’s evolving smart port ecosystem under Sagarmala. These innovations have the potential to optimize resources, minimize operational downtime through predictive maintenance, reduce emissions by enabling circular economy practices such as waste-to-energy, and strengthen environmental governance. Despite challenges related to cybersecurity, legacy infrastructure, and stakeholder resistance within conservative port cultures, strategic pilot projects and public–private partnerships can position India as a global leader in sustainable maritime waste management and green port transitions.

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