Kolkata port plans to replicate success of direct China service

Syama Prasad Mookerjee port in Kolkata

Syama Prasad Mookerjee port in Kolkata is expected to handle around 68 million tonnes (MT) of cargo this fiscal, surpassing its target.

The current cargo handling capacity of SMP Kolkata, which consists of two dock systems — Kolkata Dock System and Haldia Dock Complex — is 87.6 MT a year.

The cargo handling target this fiscal was 67.2 MT. “We will make our best endeavour to exceed this target. We expect to handle around 68 MT of cargo during this financial year,” SMP Kolkata Deputy Chairman Samrat Rahi told businessline.

SMP Kolkata, formerly known as Kolkata Port Trust, serves as a vital logistics gateway for eastern and northeastern India, while also supporting trade access for landlocked neighbouring countries such as Nepal and Bhutan.

In July last, the port inaugurated a direct weekly service from China to Kolkata. The China Calcutta Service (CCS), operating at the Kolkata Dock System in alliance with Pacific International Lines, has reduced cost and transit time.

Following an overwhelming response to the service, the port is exploring the option of establishing direct services to more East Asian countries.

“The port is planning to increase the cargo handling capacity to around 125.84 MT by 2029-30, when the projected cargo volume is likely to be around 80.72 MT,” Rahi said.

The port authorities plan to increase the cargo handling capacity through public-private partnership (PPP) projects.

The major commodities handled by the port are petroleum, oil and lubricants (POL), vegetable oil, chemicals, iron ore, thermal/coking coal, break bulk/dry bulk cargo, and containers.

The Haldia Dock Complex primarily handles dry bulk and liquid bulk, whereas the Kolkata Dock System principally handles break bulk and containers.

The port authorities have launched a direct rail line, called Port-Link Express, from Kolkata to Haldia for both export and import cargo.

The rail line is run by a group of entities, including the diversified public sector company Balmer Lawrie. It ensures a direct link between the dock systems.

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Published on January 12, 2026