SMP Kolkata begins night navigation on Hooghly River from Budge Budge to sea to cut turnaround time

Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Port, Kolkata (SMPK) has initiated night navigation in the upper stretches of the Hooghly River, covering the segment from Budge Budge to the sea. The move marks a significant step in the port’s operational upgrade, aiming to reduce ship turnaround time and pre-berthing detention. The channel, which stretches 232 kilometres from the sea to the Kolkata Dock System (KDS), has historically been impacted by navigational depth restrictions and strong tidal currents that hinder continuous vessel movement.

The absence of night-time vessel passage between Diamond Harbour and Kolkata had been a longstanding constraint in achieving optimal maritime traffic flow. With this new development, vessels will now be able to operate in the river channel round the clock. The port officially launched the initiative early in the morning, as container vessel MV SINAR PENIDA successfully navigated from Budge Budge to the sea in complete darkness, carrying 8,000 metric tonnes of cargo. The ship has a length overall (LOA) of 117 metres and a draft of 6.0 metres.

Speaking on the development, SMP Kolkata Chairman Rathendra Raman said, “This is a historic day for SMP Kolkata. The successful initiation of night navigation in the upper stretches of the Hooghly River is a testament to the scientific and technological approach adopted by the port. This will bring a notable improvement in operational efficiency and turnaround time, paving the way for enhanced trade flow.” He also congratulated the Marine Department led by Captain Avijit Ghosh, along with all others who contributed to the implementation of the project.

The river route from the sea to KDS has long posed logistical challenges due to its curvature, sedimentation, and tidal behaviour, particularly in the Budge Budge to Kolkata stretch. SMPK’s implementation of night navigation using advanced technology is aimed at ensuring continuous and safer vessel movement. This development is positioned to improve cargo throughput and reduce vessel waiting periods, aligning with broader efforts to enhance port performance along the eastern coast.