Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPK), has entered into a 30-year concession agreement with JSW Infrastructure Ltd for a ₹740 crore container terminal development project under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This agreement aims to significantly enhance cargo handling capabilities at the port’s Kolkata Dock System (KDS).
Under the project, JSW Infrastructure will reconstruct Berth No. 8 and deploy advanced rail-mounted quay cranes (RMQCs) at Berths 7 and 8 of the Netaji Subhas Dock. Additionally, a 25-acre backup yard will be developed to support terminal operations. Once operational, the upgraded terminal will boast a container handling capacity of 500,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually.
The agreement was signed in the presence of SMPK Chairman Rathendra Raman, Deputy Chairman Samrat Rahi, and senior officials from both SMPK and JSW Infrastructure. Devki Nandan, Director at JSW Infrastructure, led the company’s delegation.
Speaking at the event, Chairman Rathendra Raman emphasized the project’s strategic importance in aligning with the Government of India’s Maritime India Vision. “This is a major step towards transforming Kolkata Port into a globally competitive facility with state-of-the-art infrastructure. The project will significantly boost trade efficiency and regional economic growth,” he said.
JSW Infrastructure, India’s second-largest commercial port operator, is expected to complete the terminal development within the stipulated timeline. The project will not only modernize container handling operations but also improve turnaround time and reduce logistics costs for businesses using the port.
This agreement marks another milestone in SMPK’s ongoing efforts to upgrade its facilities through private sector participation and technology integration.
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