Implementation of Pilot Project on Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) for Containers under Mumbai Customs Zone-II

Implementation of Pilot Project on Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) for Containers under Mumbai Customs Zone-II

JNCH PUBLIC NOTICE NO.86/2025 dtd 14-11-2025

Introduction

The Jawaharlal Nehru Custom House (JNCH) has announced a significant step toward modernizing and digitizing customs operations in India through the implementation of a pilot project for the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS). This system will be used for containers selected for scanning under Mumbai Customs Zone-II. The initiative is part of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)’s ongoing efforts to improve cargo security, monitoring, and risk management.

This pilot builds upon earlier ECTS guidelines, notably Public Notice No. 31/2021 issued by the Principal Commissioner of Customs, New Delhi, and represents a progressive move toward fully automated, transparent, and secure cargo movement processes.

Objective of the Pilot

The pilot project aims to:

1. Enhance transparency and visibility of containers being scanned.
2. Digitally track containers in real-time from port premises to scanning stations and designated Container Freight Stations (CFSs).
3. Prevent unauthorized tampering or diversion of cargo through GPS-enabled electronic locks (E-locks).
4. Improve customs risk management and reduce transit delays.

In simple terms, this project ensures that containers are monitored continuously, making cargo handling safer, faster, and more accountable.

Scope of the Pilot Project

The pilot will initially focus on:

1. Containers originating from Nhava Sheva (India) Gateway Terminal (NSIGT) and Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal (BMCT) that are selected for scanning.
2. Randomly selected containers, so not every container will be tracked under ECTS initially.
3. Tracking the movement of containers from port premises to scanning stations and finally to designated CFSs.

This gradual approach allows authorities to test and refine the system before a broader rollout.

Operational Process Flow

The ECTS pilot follows a structured process to ensure accuracy and security:

1. Registration and Data Entry
   • Each container is registered on a web-based ECTS portal managed by M/s Transecur Telematics Pvt. Ltd.
   • Essential details like container number, Bill of Entry, vehicle number, driver details, scanning station, and destination CFS are recorded.
2. Sealing at Port Premises
   • Before departure, an electronic lock (E-lock) is affixed to the container under the supervision of Customs officers.
3. Movement to Scanning Location
   • The container moves to the designated scanning facility.
   • The ECTS system continuously tracks its real-time location and status.
4. Scanning and Clearance
   • After scanning, the container proceeds to its respective CFS for further customs processing.
5. Unsealing at CFS
   • At the CFS, the E-lock is removed in the presence of authorized personnel.
6. Alerts and Monitoring
   The ECTS portal will automatically notify authorities in cases of:
   • Route deviation
   • Long stoppage
   • Tampering or unauthorized access
   • Sealing/unsealing confirmations
   • Any unresponsiveness from the device

Responsibilities of Stakeholders

All stakeholders, including importers, shipping agents, terminal operators, and CFS operators, are required to:

• Cooperate fully with customs officers and M/s Transecur personnel during sealing and unsealing.
• Handle ECTS-sealed containers with care and ensure timely movement.
• Report any deviations, tampering, or system irregularities immediately to the ECTS Control Room.

This ensures a smooth flow of containers while maintaining strict security standards.

Contact Points for Support

• Nodal Officer (ECTS Project) at JNCH: Shri Ganesh Paunikar, Superintendent
• Technical Lead (M/s Transecur Telematics Pvt. Ltd.): Shri Anup Narayan Yadav, Preventive Officer
• ECTS Control Room JNCH, Nhava Sheva: Phone - 8017017066 / 8017011037, Email - [email protected]

Stakeholders can contact these officials for any technical or operational guidance related to ECTS.

Implementation Timeline

• The pilot notice comes into effect from 17th November 2025.
• Actual ECTS sealing operations will commence after preparatory activities are completed.
• The notice will remain in force for the duration of the pilot project or until further orders.

Author’s Remarks

The launch of the ECTS pilot at Mumbai Customs Zone-II marks a major step toward modernizing India’s customs processes. Key takeaways include:

1. Technological Advancement: The use of GPS-enabled electronic locks ensures real-time tracking and prevents theft or tampering, enhancing the security of goods in transit.
2. Efficiency and Transparency: Digitizing container movement reduces manual errors, increases accountability, and helps customs officers focus on high-risk cargo.
3. Collaborative Effort: The project involves close coordination between customs officers, port authorities, CFS operators, and private tech vendors, highlighting a model for future smart customs operations.
4. Pilot Approach: By starting with random containers at specific terminals, authorities can identify operational gaps before a full-scale rollout.

In conclusion, ECTS represents the future of cargo monitoring in India. It not only streamlines logistics but also strengthens border security and risk management. Importers and stakeholders should prepare for more digitalized, transparent, and accountable operations.