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The proposed deep-sea port project in West Bengal has once again attracted industry attention, with JSW Infrastructure indicating that it will closely study the viability of the newly identified site at Dadanpatrabar. The port operator, part of the diversified JSW Group, had earlier participated in the bidding process for the proposed Tajpur deep-sea port project. Although the company was among the contenders, the project eventually did not move forward after the tender process was cancelled.
With the newly elected state government now considering Dadanpatrabar as an alternative location, JSW Infrastructure believes the project warrants a fresh evaluation. Speaking about the development, Rinkesh Roy, Joint Managing Director and CEO of JSW Infrastructure, said the company would examine the new proposal carefully before taking a view on future participation. A key consideration, according to Roy, will be the navigational channel serving the port. The suitability of the channel, regulatory clearances and operational feasibility will play a decisive role in determining whether the location can support large-scale maritime activity.
Industry observers note that channel depth and accessibility remain among the most critical factors in the success of any deep-water port project, directly influencing vessel movement and cargo handling efficiency. The state government recently announced that Dadanpatrabar is being preferred over Tajpur because of the availability of government-owned land, which could simplify the development of supporting infrastructure such as rail links, roads, logistics parks and warehousing facilities.
While the government is yet to outline the project's execution model, discussions around the port have intensified following recent meetings between senior state officials, representatives of major port operators and the Union shipping ministry. Sources familiar with the matter have also suggested that Dadanpatrabar may offer a more favourable channel configuration than the earlier proposed site, potentially strengthening its long-term prospects as a maritime gateway on India's eastern coast.
The company has outlined a substantial investment programme aimed at modernising cargo-handling infrastructure and enhancing operational efficiency at the historic riverine port. Under the proposed development plan, JSW Infrastructure intends to invest nearly ₹1,500 crore in upgrading six existing berths while also creating two additional container terminals outside the lock-gate system. Recently, the company secured a Letter of Award from Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority for the integrated redevelopment of the facilities. Combined with previously awarded berths, the project is expected to provide container-handling capacity of around 1.4 million TEUs annually. One of the primary objectives is to significantly reduce vessel turnaround time. Through mechanisation and infrastructure upgrades, the company expects to lower berth occupancy from nearly 48 hours to approximately 24 hours per vessel. The improvements are also expected to increase container throughput per ship call. Advanced cargo-handling equipment will enable vessels to load and unload larger volumes during each visit, thereby improving productivity and reducing congestion.
According to Roy, these operational efficiencies could eventually lower freight costs by allowing shipping lines to undertake additional voyages each year. The integration of port operations with rail-based logistics services is also expected to create a more seamless supply-chain solution for cargo owners. Despite the challenges associated with operating a river port with relatively shallow draught, Roy believes Kolkata enjoys a distinct advantage due to its proximity to major consumption centres.
A significant proportion of the cargo handled at Netaji Subhas Dock is destined for Kolkata and the broader Bengal market. With utilisation levels already crossing 90 per cent and cargo volumes continuing to grow at a healthy pace, the company sees a strong business case for expanding capacity. As industrial activity gathers momentum in eastern India, JSW Infrastructure expects Kolkata's strategic location and infrastructure upgrades to position it as a key logistics hub for the region's next phase of growth.
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India has reaffirmed its growing influence in global maritime governance through an active and policy-driven participation at the 137th Session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, held in London from July 6 to 10. The country's delegation engaged in key discussions on maritime safety, governance reforms, digitalisation, seafarer welfare and international cooperation, reinforcing India's commitment to shaping the future of global shipping. Led by Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Maritime Administration, the Indian delegation advocated a balanced, consensus-based approach to reforms within the IMO. India stressed that any amendments to the organisation's rules should preserve its technical and collaborative character while ensuring greater transparency and consistency in maritime governance. The delegation also highlighted the need for contextual interpretation of audit outcomes under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme, cautioning against simplistic country rankings. Seafarer welfare remained a key focus during the session. India called for stronger international collaboration to ensure timely repatriation, effective financial security mechanisms and improved implementation of the Maritime Labour Convention. The delegation showcased several digital initiatives, including the 24x7 e-Navik Seafarer Assistance Portal and an integrated crisis response framework designed to provide faster grievance redressal and support to Indian seafarers across the world. On the sidelines of the Council meeting, the Indian delegation held high-level discussions with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) and representatives from Kenya. The engagements focused on maritime digitalisation, global standards for seafarer welfare, capacity building, maritime education and stronger international partnerships. India also highlighted its progress in digitising maritime administration through online certification systems, upgraded recruitment and training platforms and measures to curb fraudulent crewing practices. These initiatives are expected to enhance the global recognition and competitiveness of Indian seafarers while supporting efficient maritime compliance. Addressing geopolitical concerns, India emphasised the importance of restoring peace and ensuring safe navigation through critical shipping routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz. The delegation underlined that disruptions in strategic maritime corridors have significant implications for global supply chains, trade continuity and shipping costs, reiterating that dialogue and diplomacy remain the most effective means of resolving regional conflicts. India's constructive interventions at the 137th IMO Council underscore its emergence as a responsible maritime nation that is actively contributing to safer, greener and more resilient global shipping. For the logistics and supply chain industry, India's growing role at the IMO is expected to support stronger maritime governance, improved seafarer welfare and enhanced resilience across international trade networks. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) welcomed the newly built vessel MV MINI ATLAS 2 on its maiden call, marking another milestone in the port's efforts to strengthen its position as a preferred maritime gateway on India's west coast. The vessel, built in Indonesia, received a traditional ceremonial welcome upon its arrival, reflecting the maritime industry's long-standing practice of honouring a ship's inaugural visit to a port. The maiden call underscores the growing confidence of international shipping lines in New Mangalore Port's operational capabilities and efficient cargo-handling infrastructure. Such first-time vessel calls are considered significant as they often pave the way for long-term commercial engagements and regular shipping services, enhancing trade connectivity and port competitiveness. Officials from the New Mangalore Port Authority extended a warm reception to the vessel's master and crew, commemorating the occasion with the exchange of plaques and mementoes. The event highlighted the port's commitment to fostering strong relationships with global shipping stakeholders while promoting seamless vessel operations. Strategically located on Karnataka's coastline, New Mangalore Port has emerged as a key gateway for handling a diverse range of cargo, including petroleum products, coal, fertilizers, containers, edible oils, timber, iron ore pellets and project cargo. The addition of new international vessel calls further reinforces the port's role in supporting India's expanding maritime trade and supply chain ecosystem. The arrival of MV MINI ATLAS 2 also reflects the increasing integration of regional shipping networks across Asia. As trade volumes continue to grow, ports that offer efficient turnaround times, modern infrastructure and customer-focused services are becoming increasingly attractive to shipping companies seeking reliable logistics hubs. Over the past few years, New Mangalore Port has been investing in capacity enhancement, digitalisation and sustainability initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency. These efforts have helped the port strengthen its standing among India's major ports while supporting the objectives of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to modernise the country's maritime infrastructure. Industry observers note that maiden vessel calls are more than ceremonial occasions—they signal new commercial opportunities, expand shipping connectivity and contribute to stronger regional trade links. For exporters, importers and logistics service providers, increased vessel traffic translates into greater flexibility, improved shipping options and enhanced supply chain resilience. As global shipping networks continue to evolve, the successful maiden call of MV MINI ATLAS 2 reinforces New Mangalore Port's growing importance as a strategic maritime hub capable of facilitating international trade while supporting India's ambition of becoming a global logistics powerhouse. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Escalating tensions in West Asia have significantly disrupted air cargo exports from Kerala, with cargo movement through Cochin International Airport (CIAL) and Calicut International Airport falling sharply as flight cancellations and reduced services to Gulf destinations affect exporters of perishable goods. The Gulf region is a key export market for Kerala's air cargo, handling large volumes of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, flowers and other time-sensitive products. The ongoing disruption has reduced available cargo capacity, delayed shipments and increased uncertainty for exporters dependent on regular air connectivity to West Asia. According to CIAL officials, daily outbound air cargo volumes from Kochi have dropped from around 150 tonnes before the crisis to nearly 60 tonnes. Perishable cargo, which normally accounts for about 60% of total exports, has been the hardest hit due to limited flight availability and longer transit times. To ease the backlog, a dedicated cargo aircraft from Abu Dhabi was deployed to transport stranded consignments, including a large volume of perishables. Airport authorities said flight services to some Gulf destinations have gradually resumed, raising expectations that cargo movement will improve as airline schedules normalise. Exporters operating through both Kochi and Calicut have been forced to adjust logistics plans as airlines reduce frequencies or reroute services because of the regional conflict. Industry stakeholders say the disruptions have increased transportation costs and created challenges for maintaining delivery schedules, particularly for products with short shelf lives. Despite the temporary setback, CIAL recorded nearly 72,200 metric tonnes of cargo during FY2025-26, reflecting close to 10% annual growth even as operations were affected by the West Asia crisis. Airport authorities attributed the resilience to diversified cargo streams and efforts to maintain export connectivity wherever possible. Kochi remains Kerala's largest air cargo gateway, handling nearly 60% of the state's air freight and serving as a critical hub for exports to the Gulf, Europe and other international markets. The airport continues to play a central role in supporting Kerala's agricultural and seafood exports, with industry participants expecting cargo volumes to recover as regional air services stabilise. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
