Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Kolkata Achieves Cargo Handling Record In 2023-24

Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMP Kolkata), comprising the Kolkata Dock System (KDS) and Haldia Dock Complex (HDC), has set a major milestone in its 154-year history by handling a record-breaking 66.4 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) of cargo during the fiscal year 2023-24. This achievement marks a notable 1.11 per cent increase from the previous record of 65.66 million tonnes moved in 2022-23.

According to the official information by the union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Chairman of SMP Kolkata, Rathendra Raman, credited this output to a series of strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing productivity, implementing stringent safety measures, fostering business development, and optimising overall capacity utilisation.

Of particular note is the significant contribution from HDC, which managed to handle 49.54 MMT of cargo in FY 2023-24, marking its highest cargo volume ever recorded since its establishment and surpassing the previous record of 48.608 MMT in FY 2022-23, reflecting a commendable increase of 1.91 per cent. Meanwhile, KDS handled 16.856 MMT of cargo in 2023-24 compared to 17.052 MMT in 2022-23.

Raman also highlighted the port's robust financial performance in 2023-24, achieving a net surplus of Rs. 501.73 crores, representing a significant 65 per cent growth over the previous year's net surplus of Rs. 304.07 crores, underscoring a remarkable financial accomplishment.

In a bid to further augment the port's capacity, SMP Kolkata is placing considerable emphasis on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects, with two projects already awarded, including the Rejuvenation of KPD-I West and Mechanization of Berth no. 2 at HDC, at a total cost of Rs. 480 crores, which could potentially lead to an incremental capacity addition of approximately 6.78 MMT.

Additionally, three more projects, including the development of Berth No. 5 for HDC and Strengthening & Mechanization of Berth no. 7 & 8 NSD, among others, with a total investment of Rs. 1160 crore, are anticipated to reach the award stage by 2024-25.

During FY 2023-24, several major projects were awarded and completed, including the development of drainage network at HDC, implementation of energy-efficient/smart fittings at KDS, and augmentation of fire-fighting systems at various jetties.

HDC registered growth across various sectors including POL (Product), Other Liquid, Vegetable Oil, Iron Ore, Other Coal Coke, Finished Fertiliser, and Container TEUs, while KDS witnessed growth in Finished Fertiliser, Timber, Other Coal/Coke, Pulses & Peas, and Container (both TEUs and Tonnage) during 2023-24 compared to 2022-23.

The remarkable achievement of SMP Kolkata in setting a new cargo handling record underscores its commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in maritime operations, thereby contributing significantly to the regional and national economy.