Chairperson of the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone) Yehia Zaki has announced that the zone represents an applicable model for the smart transportation concept.
The model comes as part of the plan to support the digital infrastructure the zone’s activities need to activate the technological applications that support its economic activities.
Zaki’s comments came during a speech at a seminar on Smart and Sustainable Ports and the Future of Transport Technology and Logistics, which was held during the activities of the Cairo ICT 2020 exhibition.
The chairperson added that the East Port Said and Ain Sokhna Ports represent pivotal entities within the economic zone, representing an ideal development model for Egyptian ports. This covers planning, availability of infrastructure, and their possession of modern depths and logistical and industrial backyards for berths.
With these elements in place, development can take place for a global logistical platform because of their digital infrastructure, which also enhances the concept of green ports.
Zaki said that the SCZone aims to put in place some technological applications that support economic activities within the affiliated ports. It includes the ability to provide information quickly and track shipping operations throughout the day, in addition to the availability of smart traffic management at the port.
The apps will also ensure that electronic sensors are in place to monitor the marine environment, in addition to using artificial intelligence (AI) machines and working with digitisation procedures.
Zaki added that the SCZone has succeeded in attracting direct investments that depend on the integrated development of stations that provide value-added activities. He also noted the establishment and operation of the grain terminal in the zone.
Through its flexibility and speed in decision-making, the authority was able to increase the volume of circulation at the port of East Port Said. This amounted to 3,127 million TEUs during the past 10 months of this year, despite the repercussions of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) on the global shipping sector.
The SCZone is looking to develop the information system of its affiliated ports, whilst providing support through digital infrastructure. It will also apply a one-stop-shop to improve business performance efficiency and productivity, in line with the current global changes.
