The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways has given the nod to a groundbreaking project, the reconstruction of Berth No 8 and mechanisation of Berth Nos 7 and 8 at Netaji Subhash Dock of KDS, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata. The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, spearheaded this strategic move, marking a significant turning point in the port’s developmental trajectory.
This ambitious venture, valued at Rs 809.18 crore, will be implemented under a Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) framework through Public-Private Partnership (PPP). The approved project is poised to revolutionize the operational dynamics of the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, introducing an effective, efficient, and environmentally sustainable integrated cargo handling system. The infusion of additional berthing and cargo handling facilities is expected to enhance the port’s capacity, versatility, and overall competitiveness, catering to both import and export activities.
Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways emphasised the transformative impact of mechanisation at ports, stating, “Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, and by taking several initiatives at ports, the cargo handling capacity of the ports has doubled in the last ten years. The Mechanisation at ports isn’t just about upgrading infrastructure; it’s about empowering our nation’s trade ecosystem with efficiency and global competitiveness.”
The Sagarmala Programme in West Bengal oversees 62 projects valued at Rs 16,300 crore, with 19 completed projects worth approximately Rs 1,100 crore and 43 projects at various stages of implementation totalling around Rs 15,000 crore. The Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 outlines various initiatives for the development of world-class next-generation ports, including the creation of port clusters, deeper drafts at ports, transshipment hubs, and the development of new major ports.
Additionally, the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 highlights the identification of maritime industrial clusters and the development of islands, such as Greater Nicobar & Port Blair at Andaman and Nicobar Islands, for bunkering hubs and ship repair. This transformative initiative underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering infrastructural development and fortifying maritime commerce.