Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port sees 21% jump in cargo traffic in Q1 FY26

By Admin

10 Jul, 2025

Impressive Growth in Q1 FY26
The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPK), has started FY26 on a high note, reporting a robust 21.21% year-on-year increase in cargo traffic during the first quarter (April–June). The port handled a substantial 17.18 million tonnes (MMT) of cargo compared to 14.2 MMT in the same period last year, underscoring its growing significance in India’s maritime trade ecosystem.

Container Traffic Hits New Highs
One of the standout highlights of the quarter was SMPK's remarkable performance in container handling. The port recorded 234,270 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units), showing an impressive 29.02% growth over the corresponding quarter in FY25. This surge not only reflects the port's operational efficiency but also signals increasing confidence among global and domestic shippers.

Segment-Wise Surge in Cargo
The overall growth was bolstered by significant increases across major cargo segments:

• Vegetable oil traffic surged by 33.21% to 1.95 MMT
  
  

• Coking coal rose sharply by 34.28% to 2.653 MMT
  
  

• POL (Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants) volumes grew by 14.45% to 2.495 MMT
  
  

These figures highlight the port’s diversified cargo handling capabilities and its readiness to support multiple sectors of the economy.

Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Boost
Port authorities have credited this exceptional growth to a combination of strategic planning, ongoing infrastructure upgrades, and a customer-centric operational approach. Continuous investments in modernizing port facilities and streamlining logistics have played a pivotal role in enhancing cargo movement and reducing turnaround times.

A Crucial Trade Gateway
With its twin dock systems at Kolkata and Haldia, SMPK serves as a vital maritime gateway for eastern and northeastern India. Additionally, it plays a key role in facilitating trade for landlocked nations like Nepal and Bhutan, thanks to its advantageous geographic location and vast hinterland connectivity. This strategic position further cements SMPK's importance in regional and international trade networks.

Looking Ahead
As SMPK continues to build on its strong performance, the focus remains on expanding capacity, enhancing digital capabilities, and strengthening trade facilitation. With such a strong start to FY26, the port is well-positioned to sustain its growth momentum and reinforce its role as a premier trade hub for the region.