SMP Kolkata resumes thermal coal handling at Haldia after 9 months

Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), Kolkata has resumed coastal thermal coal handling at the Mechanical Thermal Coal Handling Facility at Berth No. 3 of its Haldia Dock Complex (HDC), restoring operations after a gap of nine months and strengthening its role in India's coastal energy logistics.

The revived facility is currently handling approximately 27,100 metric tonnes (MT) of thermal coal for Andhra Pradesh Power Development Company Limited (APPDCL). The cargo is being loaded onto a coastal vessel, which will sail to Paradip Port before proceeding to its final destination at Krishnapatnam Port.

The resumption marks APPDCL's first coastal thermal coal shipment through HDC's Mechanical Coal Handling Plant in nearly nine months and is expected to improve the movement of thermal coal to power plants through the coastal shipping network.

According to the port, reviving the mechanical coal handling facility will enhance cargo throughput, reduce vessel turnaround times and improve operational efficiency, while reinforcing Haldia Dock Complex's position as a key gateway for coastal shipping and bulk energy cargo on India's eastern coast.

Commenting on the development, Rathendra Raman, Chairperson, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, said the revival reflects the engineering capabilities, customer-focused approach and operational commitment of the Haldia Dock Complex team. He added that restoring the facility would strengthen the port's logistics capabilities while supporting the country's energy requirements.

The port expects the recommissioned facility to contribute to higher cargo volumes and further improve service delivery as it continues expanding its role in handling coastal bulk cargo.