The port proudly achieved a staggering cargo handling of 66.4 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT), marking a notable 1.11% increase from its previous record set in 2022-23
In a historic milestone spanning 154 years of operation, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMP Kolkata), encompassing Kolkata Dock System (KDS) and Haldia Dock Complex (HDC), has soared to new heights in the fiscal year 2023-24. The port proudly achieved a staggering cargo handling of 66.4 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT), marking a notable 1.11% increase from its previous record set in 2022-23, where it moved 65.66 million tonnes of cargo.
Strategic Initiatives Powering Success
Chairman Shri Rathendra Raman attributes this remarkable achievement to a series of strategic initiatives aimed at bolstering productivity, enhancing safety measures, fostering business development, and optimizing overall capacity utilization.
HDC’s Significant Contribution
A standout performer, HDC played a pivotal role in this triumph, handling a record-breaking 49.54 MMT in FY 2023-24. This achievement not only surpasses its previous record of 48.608 MMT in FY 2022-23 but also reflects an impressive increase of 1.91%. Meanwhile, KDS managed 16.856 MMT of cargo in 2023-24 compared to 17.052 MMT in 2022-23.
The port’s financial prowess shone brightly in 2023-24, boasting a net surplus of Rs. 501.73 crores. This marks a significant 65% growth over the previous year’s net surplus of Rs. 304.07 crores, underscoring a remarkable financial achievement.
Embracing PPP Projects for Capacity Augmentation
To further expand its capacity, SMP Kolkata is strategically emphasizing Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects. Noteworthy among these endeavors are:
- PPP Project Concessions
Two projects costing Rs. 480 Crore have been awarded by SMPK for the Rejuvenation of KPD-I West (Cost Rs. 181.81 crores) and Mechanization of Berth no. 2 at HDC (Cost 298.28 Crore), potentially leading to an Incremental Capacity Addition of 6.78 MMT (approx.).
- Upcoming Projects
Three additional projects, including Berth No 5 for HDC, Strengthening & Mechanization of Berth no. 7 & 8 NSD, and Floating Crane at Diamond Harbour, with a cumulative cost of Rs 1160 crore and an incremental capacity of 4.5 MMT, are anticipated to reach the award stage by 2024-25.
Major Projects and Achievements
In the fiscal year 2023-24, SMP Kolkata witnessed significant advancements and completions, including:
- Development of Drainage Network: Phase-IIA of the drainage network on the eastern side of the dock basin at Haldia Dock Complex, Haldia, under the master drainage plan, at a cost of Rs.26.79 Crore.
- Smart Infrastructure Implementation: Issuance of Smart Light for the implementation of energy-efficient/smart fittings and rooftop solar power plant at KDS, Lol.
- Completion of Major Projects: Four major projects costing Rs. 201.23 crore were successfully completed during FY 2023-24, including procurement of a Rail Mounted Quay Crane, augmentation of the Fire Fighting system, development of the GCD Yard, and procurement, supply, installation, testing & commissioning of a Drive-Through X-Ray Container Scanning System for KDS.
Sectoral Growth and Expansion
HDC experienced growth in various sectors including POL (Product), Other Liquid, Vegetable Oil, Iron Ore, Other Coal Coke, Finished Fertilizer, and Container TEUs. Similarly, KDS witnessed growth in sectors such as Finished Fertilizer, Timber, Other Coal / Coke, Pulses & Peas, and Container traffic, both in terms of TEUs and tonnage, during 2023-24 compared to 2022-23.
The record-breaking cargo handling at SMP Kolkata in 2023-24 not only signifies a historic achievement but also underscores the port’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth. With strategic initiatives, robust financial performance, and upcoming projects, SMP Kolkata is poised to continue its legacy of success while contributing significantly to the region’s economic prosperity.