New Delhi: In a significant milestone in its 154-year history, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMP Kolkata), comprising Kolkata Dock System (KDS) and Haldia Dock Complex (HDC), recorded a remarkable achievement by handling 66.4 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) of Cargo during the fiscal year 2023-24. This achievement marks a 1.11% increase from the previous record of 65.66 million tonnes moved in 2022-23.
Attributing this milestone to a series of strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing productivity, safety measures, business development, and overall capacity utilization, Chairman Shri Rathendra Raman lauded the port’s outstanding performance. He emphasized HDC’s significant contribution, with the complex handling 49.54 MMT in FY 2023-24, marking its highest cargo volume ever and surpassing the previous record of 48.608 MMT in FY 2022-23, representing a notable increase of 1.91%. Meanwhile, KDS managed 16.856 MMT of cargo in 2023-24 compared to 17.052 MMT in 2022-23.
Shri Raman also highlighted the port’s robust financial performance, achieving a net surplus of Rs. 501.73 crores in 2023-24, marking a substantial 65% growth over the previous year’s net surplus of Rs. 304.07 crores.
To further augment the port’s capacity, SMP Kolkata is prioritizing Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects, aiming for significant capacity addition. Two PPP projects, including the rejuvenation of KPD-I West and the mechanization of Berth no. 2 at HDC, have been awarded, with a potential incremental capacity addition of 6.78 MMT. Additionally, three more projects, including Berth No. 5 for HDC, strengthening & mechanization of Berth no. 7 & 8 NSD, and a floating crane at Diamond Harbour, are expected to reach the award stage by 2024-25, with an incremental capacity of 4.5 MMT.
Several major projects were awarded and completed during FY 2023-24, focusing on infrastructure development, energy efficiency, and technological advancements. Notable projects include the development of drainage networks, procurement of rail-mounted quay cranes, augmentation of fire-fighting systems, and the implementation of energy-efficient fittings and rooftop solar power plants.
Both HDC and KDS witnessed growth in various cargo categories, including petroleum products, liquid cargo, vegetable oil, iron ore, coal, fertilizer, and containers, reflecting the port’s diversified operations and consistent performance.
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