Private Operator Takes Charge of 6 Berths at Kidderpore Dock, Kolkata

Kolkata's historic Kidderpore Docks has witnessed a major shift in its operations as a private operator assumes control of six out of the eighteen berths. In a significant move, the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), Kolkata, has entered into a Public Private Partnership (PPP) agreement with Century Ports Ltd (CPL), leasing these berths to the private operator for a period of 30 years under the scheme 'Rejuvenation of Kidderpore Docks (Dock-1 West).' This decision aligns with SMP's strategic vision to play the role of a landlord, leasing its assets to private entities for enhanced cargo handling and the introduction of advanced equipment.

Under the terms of the agreement, CPL will undertake the revitalization of the six berths in two distinct phases, with each phase spanning a rejuvenation period of 18 months. The first phase will focus on the modernization of berths 2, 4, and 6, with a combined length of 254 meters. Once complete, these upgraded berths will have the capacity to accommodate container vessels up to 158 meters in length and will handle a variety of cargo, including finished fertilizers, food grains, iron and steel products, aluminum ingots, pig iron, sugar, and limestone.

In the second phase, berths 8,

10, and 12, spanning a total length of 289 meters, will undergo rejuvenation. Similar to the berths in the first phase, berths 8 and 10 will be capable of accommodating container vessels of 158 meters in length. Berths 2 and 12, measuring 162 meters and 143 meters respectively, will be optimized for the efficient handling of barges carrying items such as pulses, fertilizers, and limestone. The extensive refurbishment of these berths aims to bolster the port's capabilities and attract increased commercial activity.

The PPP agreement between SMP and CPL involves a significant financial transaction, with the private operator providing Rs 181.81 crore to SMP for the lease of the berths. The revenue distribution for SMP consists of Rs 95.66 crore allocated to Phase-I and Rs 86.15 crore designated for Phase-II. This influx of funds will enable SMP to invest in further infrastructure development and advance its long-term objectives.

The collaboration between SMP and CPL sets a precedent for potential future partnerships, as senior officials contemplate leasing additional berths to enhance efficiency and augment revenue streams. The introduction of private operators is expected to inject fresh ideas, technological advancements, and professional expertise into the operations of Kidderpore Docks, positioning it as

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modern and competitive port facility.

A Historic Transformation in Kolkata's Maritime Landscape

Kolkata's Kidderpore Docks, a venerable institution with a legacy spanning 131 years, has embarked on a transformative journey as a private operator takes charge of six key berths. The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), Kolkata, has recently inked a Public Private Partnership (PPP) agreement with Century Ports Ltd (CPL), resulting in the lease of these berths to CPL for a period of 30 years. This landmark agreement, known as the 'Rejuvenation of Kidderpore Docks (Dock-1 West),' signals a paradigm shift in the operational dynamics of the port.

The first phase of this ambitious project focuses on the modernization of berths 2, 4, and 6, which collectively stretch across 254 meters. Upon completion, these refurbished berths will boast the capacity to handle an array of cargo, including finished fertilizers, food grains, iron and steel products, aluminum ingots, pig iron, sugar, and limestone. With their upgraded infrastructure, berths 2, 4, and 6 will also be capable of accommodating container vessels up to 158 meters in length, bolstering the port's capacity to handle diverse shipments.

Continuing the transformation, the second phase will witness the rejuvenation of berths 8, 10, and 12, covering a

length of 289 meters. Berths 8 and 10 will mirror the capabilities of their counterparts in the first phase, accommodating container vessels of 158 meters in length. Berths 2 and 12, designed to cater to the efficient handling of barges transporting commodities like pulses, fertilizers, and limestone, will provide a vital link in the port's overall cargo handling ecosystem.

The collaboration between SMP and CPL is not only a game-changer for Kidderpore Docks but also sets a precedent for similar partnerships in the future. With a significant financial transaction of Rs 181.81 crore, SMP will receive Rs 95.66 crore for Phase-I and Rs 86.15 crore for Phase-II, further empowering the port authority to make crucial investments in infrastructure development. The successful execution of this project is expected to generate momentum for leasing additional berths, as SMP explores opportunities to optimize efficiency and maximize revenue.

By entrusting the operations of key berths to a private operator, SMP aims to revitalize Kidderpore Docks, reinforcing its position as a modern and competitive port facility. The strategic collaboration between SMP and CPL will bring fresh perspectives, advanced technologies, and professional handling of cargo, propelling Kolkata's maritime landscape into a new era of growth and prosperity.