The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPK) handled 17.18 million tonnes (MMT) of cargo in the first quarter (April-June) of FY26, marking a growth of 21.21 per cent over 14.2 MMT cargo handled in the corresponding period of previous fiscal year. The port also witnessed a remarkable surge in container traffic, recording 234,270 TEUs (Twentyfoot Equivalent Units) during the quarter, registering a 29.02 per cent growth from the year-ago period. Strong growth was observed across key segments, with vegetable oil traffic rising 33.21 per cent to 1.95 MMT, coking coal up 34.28 per cent to 2.653 MMT and POL (petroleum, oil and lubricants) volume increasing 14.45 per cent to 2.495 MMT.
The port authorities have attributed this exceptional performance to a combination of strategic planning, ongoing infrastructure upgrades, and a steadfast commitment to a customer-centric approach. SMPK, with its twin dock systems at Kolkata and Haldia, serves as a crucial gateway for trade in eastern and northeastern India, as well as for landlocked neighbouring countries like Nepal and Bhutan. The port’s strategic location and extensive hinterland underscore its importance in regional and international trade.
