Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Kolkata has marked a significant milestone by conducting India’s inaugural midstream container handling operation at Diamond Harbour Anchorage on the Hooghly River. This innovative method facilitates the transfer of export cargo from the Bengal-Bihar-Jharkhand industrial region to global markets, eliminating the need for traditional berthing.
On April 25, at 4:30 a.m., containers were lifted directly from inland barges and transferred to the gearless container ship MSC Andrea F using the self-propelled floating crane, Shreeji Samruddhi. This operation, overseen by SMP Kolkata Chairman Rathendra Raman and senior officials, represents a transformative development in port logistics.
Kolkata Port’s location, 220 kilometers inland from the Bay of Bengal, has historically limited its competitiveness, particularly for large container vessels. The new midstream transfer method addresses these geographical challenges, allowing shallow-draft barges to shift cargo to ocean-going vessels at Diamond Harbour, where water depth is sufficient.
This advancement is pivotal for improving inland waterway logistics in India, creating a seamless link between the inland network and international shipping. It enhances cargo movement from locations like Varanasi and Patna to coastal vessels without the delays and costs associated with traditional transport methods.
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