Abstract:
Ports around the world that have been a stagnant industry are currently going through a
sudden boom in technological improvements. Investigating how the port industry in South
Asia innovates in planning and operations by integrating Information Communication
Technology (ICT) is the key purpose of this research. How those developments are brought
in while maintaining sustainability and adhering to the concept of a ‘Green Terminal’ is
demonstrated. The terminal “X” which is located at the Colombo port is the focal point in
this research. In order to test the hypothesis, a systematic review was conducted. With the
clear vision of what information to gather, all relevant and recent articles based on this
context were reviewed by the authors. Positive and negative impacts of ICT integration in
Ports in South Asia were criticality evaluated. When transformed to a smart port. The
possibility of adopting electronic transport equipment with business application and
electronic transaction components using high speed internet emerges. These will address the
environmental issues such as noise and air pollution, vibrations and greenhouse gas
emissions produced by fossil fuel engines. An analysis of the challenges and possible
strategies in implementing ICT background in a terminal such as 5G network for speeding
up operations, RFID technology, E-RTG (Electric Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane) for
environment sustainability completed this investigation. Methods of developments in “X”
and in other ports in South Asia as a whole are provided in the recommendations. Based on
information gathered through databases, the research deduces that if these steps are
implemented, terminal “X” would experience rapid growth. This can be achieved using
long-term planning, sustainable innovation and Internet of Things (IoT). The research
finally provides recommendations on countering obstacles in the industry through strategies
and infrastructure solutions. ‘Green Terminals’ can reduce the negative impact on
environment using green energy for power loading and discharging activities. Based on this
the ‘Green Terminal concept’ should be used for further developments in ports of South
Asia.
