SMP, Kolkata initiates major berth mechanisation project at Haldia Dock Complex to boost dry bulk cargo handling capacity
On September 5, 2024, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPK) issued a Letter of Intent (LoI) to Bothra Shipping Services Pvt. Ltd for the “Mechanisation of Berth No. 5 (erstwhile Berth No. 4B)” project at Haldia Dock Complex (HDC) on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis. This marks the commencement of the project, which aims to streamline dry bulk cargo handling at the port, further reinforcing HDC's position as a critical gateway for maritime trade.
The project involves the development and mechanisation of Berth No. 5 with a robust and modern system, that includes the installation of rail-mounted Mobile Harbour Cranes with capacity of 1000 TPH, conveyor systems of 2,000 TPH, stacker-cum-reclaimer units of 2,000 TPH, and a mechanised silo-based rapid wagon loading system with a rated capacity of 2,000 TPH. The facility will also feature a comprehensive rail and road evacuation system, along with supporting infrastructure such as a back-up area covering approximately 44 acres.
The total project cost amounts to ?365.88 crore, with an expenditure of ?343.58 crore. Construction is expected to span 30 months, followed by a concession period of 30 years. Once operational, the berth will boast a cargo handling capacity of 5 MMTPA, facilitating the handling of diverse dry bulk cargoes, including coal and limestone.
Congratulating the team at HDC, SMPK Chairperson Mr Rathendra Raman said, “The project's completion will significantly boost the port's dry bulk handling capacity, meeting the rising demand for efficient cargo operations at Haldia Dock Complex. This mechanisation initiative, paired with enhanced infrastructure, is expected to bring long-term benefits to SMPK and its stakeholders by streamlining cargo operations and increasing throughput efficiency”.
He added, “I would like to thank our stakeholders, the consortium of Bothra Shipping Services Pvt. Ltd and Ripley & Co. Stevedoring & Handling Pvt. Ltd, JSW Infrastructure Ltd and Orissa Stevedores Ltd who have given importance in expanding the capacity of SMPK and meeting the evolving needs of global trade”.
The mechanisation of Berth No. 5 is set to become a landmark development, further strengthening Haldia Dock Complex's position as a premier dry bulk cargo handling hub in India.