Dispatcher reported a conflict between an air carrier aircraft and a tug while they were taxiing at EWR airport.

Narrative

Supertug X was instructed by the North Controller to proceed RN; B; U hold short of Y; and contact EWR Ground for further taxi instructions to the BP on -Y- side. Upon contacting EWR Ground at the intersection of TWY U and Y; Supertug X was re-cleared to turn left onto Taxiway Y and proceed westbound via RL; W short of U. However; previously; Aircraft X was cleared to taxi eastbound on Taxiway Y toward U; then B/K by the North controller. This created a head-on conflict risk between the tug and the aircraft at the intersection of Y & RL.The North Controller observed the developing hazard and immediately halted Aircraft X short of RL after repeated attempts to reach Supertug X went unanswered due to monitoring EWR Ground. Once the tug reached W/U; they responded to their dispatch and confirmed they were following Ground's clearance. Procedural non-compliance: Company Ramp Procedures were in effect for A; B; and Y/U. EWR Ground issued instructions contrary to these restrictions.Communication breakdown: Multiple unsuccessful attempts were made to contact Supertug X before they acknowledged transmissions.Conflicting clearances: Ground control's clearance placed Supertug X in direct conflict with an active aircraft movement.Hazard Identified: Nose-to-nose taxi conflict between a Supertug and Aircraft X on Taxiway Y.Potential Consequences: Aircraft/tug collision with potential for severe equipment damage and aircraft nose gear impact.Risk to ground personnel operating the tug and surrounding ramp.Major operational disruption and reputational harm.Severity Assessment: High (collision avoided only by controller vigilance).Likelihood Assessment: Possible if procedures are not consistently followed.Reinforce Ramp Procedures: Immediate reminder and training reinforcement for all Ground Controllers and ramp personnel regarding active restrictions during Ramp Procedures.Improve Communication Protocols: Dispatcher oversight to ensure tug communication equipment is functional and monitored.Coordination Between Ramp and Ground Control: Establish a mandatory cross-check before issuing taxi clearances in areas affected by Ramp restrictions.I will share this event in the next Safety meeting to raise awareness and prevent recurrence.This incident presented a serious safety risk of a tug & aircraft collision on an active taxiway. The situational awareness and vigilance of the North Controller directly prevented an accident. Stronger adherence to Ramp Procedures; improved communication discipline; and reinforced coordination between controllers and tug operators are critical to ensuring such conflicts do not reoccur.