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Several industry giants, including Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) and DP World, are competing for lucrative contracts to operate the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP) in Kolkata. The bidding process, which has attracted significant attention within the maritime sector, is aimed at securing the rights to manage and develop critical port operations at one of India’s oldest and busiest ports.
The SMP Kolkata contract is seen as a strategic opportunity for bidders to enhance their presence in the eastern region of India, where the port serves as a vital gateway for trade with Southeast Asia and beyond. Both Adani Ports and DP World are key players in the global port and logistics industry, and their participation signals the increasing competition to expand their foothold in India’s growing maritime sector.
SMP Kolkata handles a wide range of cargo, including containers, bulk commodities, and liquid cargo. With its strategic location along the Hooghly River, the port plays a crucial role in supporting India’s trade, particularly with landlocked northeastern states and neighbouring countries like Bangladesh. The winning bidder is expected to invest in modernizing port infrastructure, improving cargo handling efficiency, and boosting overall capacity.
The competition for the SMP contract underscores the importance of Indian ports as key drivers of economic growth and trade expansion. As the government pushes for port modernization under the Sagarmala initiative, the SMP Kolkata project represents a significant opportunity for private players to participate in India’s ambitious port development plans.
Industry experts believe that the contract will bring about increased competition, driving innovation and operational efficiency, ultimately benefiting India’s trade and maritime logistics sectors. The winning bid is expected to be announced in the coming months, setting the stage for the next phase of SMP Kolkata’s growth and development.