Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), Kolkata, handled 40.527 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo during April–October 2026, registering a growth of 5.10% over the 38.562 MMT handled during the corresponding period of the previous financial year.
Both the Haldia Dock Complex (HDC) and Kolkata Dock System (KDS) contributed to the growth, reflecting sustained momentum in cargo operations across the port, said Rathendra Raman, Chairperson, SMP, Kolkata.
HDC handled 29.752 MMT during the seven months, up 5.28% from 28.259 MMT in the corresponding period of 2025–26. KDS recorded a growth of 4.58%, handling 10.775 MMT against 10.303 MMT a year earlier.
Container Traffic Grows 7.98%
SMP Kolkata also registered strong growth in container traffic, handling 587,399 TEUs during April–October 2026, compared to 543,982 TEUs in the corresponding period last year, representing an increase of 7.98%.
KDS handled 454,310 TEUs, recording a growth of 7.51%, while HDC handled 133,089 TEUs, registering a higher growth of 9.64%.
October was particularly encouraging for KDS, which recorded a 15.83% year-on-year increase in container traffic. The facility handled 64,224 TEUs during the month, compared to 55,449 TEUs in October 2025.
Raman attributed the improved container performance to the induction of additional cranes for vessel operations by both private berth operators and the port authority. The deployment of a floating crane for container handling at the Diamond Harbour anchorage has also helped attract additional cargo and reduce dead freight on vessels.
Haldia Receives First Consignment of Quick Lime
In another development, HDC has commenced handling a new cargo, receiving its first-ever consignment of quick lime.
The vessel MV ASIAN HONOR arrived at Haldia on November 1, 2026, from Dibba in the United Arab Emirates, carrying 8,133 tonnes of quick lime and hydrated lime in bags. Quick lime is an important raw material for the steel industry, opening up another cargo-handling opportunity for the port.
Raman expressed confidence that SMP Kolkata would achieve higher cargo-handling targets in the coming years, supported by operational improvements and the adoption of innovative cargo-handling solutions.
Addressing Operational Challenges
SMP Kolkata, the oldest operational riverine major port in India, faces inherent operational challenges due to draft limitations. These constraints require the port management to continuously explore new strategies, technologies and operational techniques to enhance efficiency and expand its cargo base.
With its strategic hinterland covering eastern and northern India, as well as the landlocked neighbouring countries of Nepal and Bhutan, the port is focusing on strengthening its competitiveness and improving cargo connectivity to capture a larger share of regional trade.