Kolkata Port has officially inaugurated its first public-private partnership (PPP) terminal at Khidderpore Docks, marking a significant step in modernising the historic port infrastructure. The Century Ports Ltd Terminal, commissioned at a cost of ₹190 crore, is expected to enhance cargo handling efficiency while integrating sustainable and technologically advanced operations for the city’s maritime logistics sector.
Equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, the terminal features a mobile harbour crane, barge unloader, modern yard equipment, and an advanced terminal operating system (TOS). The facility has an initial capacity to handle 1.65 lakh twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containers and 3.3 lakh tonnes of other cargo annually, positioning Kolkata Port as a competitive hub for regional trade and sustainable logistics. Officials emphasised that the PPP model will allow for increased investment in the port’s modernisation, encouraging efficiency and climate-friendly operations. The concession agreement, signed in 2022 for a 30-year period, is designed to promote seamless connectivity across road, rail, and inland waterways, aligning with the city’s broader objectives of sustainable urban transport and low-carbon logistics networks.
Experts from the port authority highlight that the inauguration represents a key milestone in shifting operations from conventional to integrated and environmentally responsible models. By leveraging advanced equipment and digital monitoring systems, the port aims to reduce operational emissions and improve energy efficiency while maintaining high throughput. The Kolkata Port Authority has indicated that over ₹4,000 crore worth of PPP projects are currently in the pipeline for both Kolkata and Haldia docks, expected to be operational within the next year. These initiatives are part of a strategic vision to transform the region’s maritime infrastructure, optimise cargo flow, and strengthen India’s standing in global trade networks.
Analysts note that modernisation of historic docks like Khidderpore not only improves operational efficiency but also fosters equitable economic opportunities by creating jobs, boosting ancillary services, and enhancing urban connectivity. Officials emphasise that such initiatives are critical for aligning the port’s operations with sustainable development goals, reducing carbon footprint, and promoting gender-neutral employment opportunities in the logistics and maritime sectors. With the first PPP terminal now operational, city planners and logistics experts foresee a significant reduction in cargo congestion and delays, improved scheduling for shipments, and enhanced integration with inland transport corridors. The initiative also underscores the government’s commitment to attracting private investment while ensuring environmentally responsible infrastructure growth.
As Kolkata Port sets this precedent, the successful implementation of PPP terminals could serve as a model for other historic ports across India, demonstrating the potential of sustainable, technology-driven port operations in boosting trade efficiency while supporting equitable and low-carbon urban development.
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