Brazil. Improving video surveillance systems for transport logistics, as well as optimizing access control processes were the main needs presented by the Port of Suape, located in Pernambuco and recognized as one of the most important in Latin America.
This port functions as a complex that provides service to hundreds of companies from all types of sectors and that moves more than 20 million tons of goods per year, being the headquarters of the largest movement of liquid bulk and cabotage. In addition to housing a large and complex network of access channels for ships, this port brings together various operations centers that load and unload incoming and outgoing goods.
In the Port of Suape, as cargo tonnage increased annually, the volume of vehicles circulating in the port area began to hinder the flow of traffic and therefore operations. In that context, many of the companies with operations centers in the complex began to express complaints related to the increasingly long waiting times to which their trucks had to undergo.
At the same time, there was a significant growth in infractions, irregularities and inappropriate behavior by frustrated drivers. This problem, in particular, required the implementation of surveillance systems that were better than the existing ones. Likewise, it involved optimizing access control processes to safely release the flow of trucks that circulate daily through the port; both those who enter, and those who leave.
Network video surveillance solution
A system integrator and Axis Communications partner, Pegasus Technology, was tasked with providing a suitable management platform to solve truck traffic congestion. The fundamental element of this solution was the AXIS P14 Series Network Cameras bullet style, with the ability to automatically capture the license plates of vehicles entering the port.
This means that no other resource is needed to carry out these records. In addition, these cameras that provide clear images even in low-light conditions integrate with a suite of Pegasus applications for programming, video analytics, priority management, access control, data integration, and license plate image interpretation.
"Axis cameras and Pegasus software have helped us improve security by automatically registering all vehicles accessing the main port area. The cameras capture clear images of license plates and the software helps us maintain a safe and steady flow of trucks through the complex. It has greatly improved our operations," says Pablo Teixeira, Executive Coordinator of Information Technology at the Port of Suape.
Since its correct implementation, the new video surveillance and access control system has allowed port operators to control traffic efficiently, directing carriers to safe preparation areas where they are assigned entry times. Likewise, incidents related to infractions derived from incidents associated with the frustration of transport personnel were reduced.
Because terminal companies can now coordinate entry assignments, the loading process is faster and congestion in the port complex has virtually disappeared. This not only represents a benefit for the port and the local or national economy; solutions of this kind have a positive effect on global supply chains.
