New Container and Coal Berths Planned for Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port
The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority (SMPA) is taking significant steps to enhance its infrastructure with the development of specialized container and coal berths at Balagarh. This ambitious project aims to accommodate the expected growth in traffic and streamline cargo movement within the city. By encouraging cargo transportation via National Waterway-1, the initiative is set to improve inland waterway connections and boost logistics efficiency across the region.
Project Details and Timeline
The SMPA has confirmed that land is already available for the project, and it has obtained environmental clearance as of January 24, 2025. The Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) phase has seen progress, with the tender for road construction announced on February 2, 2026. Furthermore, the work order for the construction of a Road Over Bridge (ROB) was issued on January 9, 2026.
Project Funding and Cost
The total estimated budget for this project is ₹ 539.17 crore. This amount includes ₹ 131.97 crore allocated for the EPC component, while the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) segment requires ₹ 407.20 crore. Funding for the EPC component is being provided by the Inland Waterways Authority of India. Meanwhile, the PPP component will be financed and executed by a selected concessionaire. The EPC phase, excluding dredging, is expected to be completed by March 31, 2028, with dredging activities to commence before the jetties’ construction begins.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Once completed, this project is projected to have a cargo handling capacity of 2.7 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA). The new facilities are anticipated to provide significant economic benefits by alleviating congestion caused by intra-city cargo movements, thereby lowering logistics costs. The initiative is also expected to pave the way for the development of a new trade hub, which could drive regional economic growth.
Moreover, the project is expected to create approximately 2,600 jobs through both direct and indirect channels. These employment opportunities will be crucial in supporting local communities and enhancing socio-economic development in the area.
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