The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata (SMPK) has introduced a volume-based rebate scheme for the 2024-25 fiscal year, aiming to boost cargo volumes. Despite facing challenges such as limited draught in the riverine channel connecting Kolkata and Haldia port facilities to the sea, SMPK achieved a record cargo handling of 66.4 million tonnes in 2023-24. The port now seeks to surpass this milestone.
Under the new scheme, concessions will be provided for increases in cargo volumes, particularly for coal, manganese ore, iron ore, and limestone. The rebates can reach up to Rs 100 per metric tonne, significantly reducing cargo and vessel-related charges. Additionally, incentives are offered to attract new customers to the Haldia Dock Complex (HDC), which benefits from better draught conditions compared to the Kolkata Dock System (KDS). This allows larger vessels with greater parcel loads to enter HDC more easily than KDS.
To promote this strategy and attract customers, SMPK organised an interactive session with key stakeholders on Monday. Present at the session were Shri Rathendra Raman, Chairman of SMPK, A.K. Mehra, Deputy Chairman of HDC, and Samrat Rahi, Deputy Chairman of KDS.
“We are committed to fostering growth and prosperity for our stakeholders. This rebate scheme is a testament to our dedication to supporting our customers and driving economic development in the region. I urge all users to maximise their cargo throughput and fully benefit from the scheme,” said Raman.
This initiative underscores SMPK’s commitment to enhancing its operational efficiency and competitiveness. By incentivising increased cargo volumes and attracting new business, the port aims to solidify its position as a key player in the region’s economic landscape, ensuring continued growth and development.
