Kolkata port deploys 2 electric cranes to boost container handling to 7.5 lakh TEUs by FY26

Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPK) has deployed two new high-capacity electric Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHCs) at Netaji Subhas Dock (NSD) under the Kolkata Dock System (KDS), taking the total number of MHCs at KDS to six. This move aims to strengthen the port's infrastructure and improve container handling operations.

The newly introduced cranes have been deployed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) and are powered by electricity. Dedicated high-capacity electric power infrastructure is being installed within the dock premises to support these cranes. The port authorities stated that this addition is part of SMPK’s effort to improve operational efficiency and vessel turnaround time at NSD.

In the financial year 2024–25, KDS handled 6.19 lakh Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs). With the commissioning of these cranes, SMPK expects to increase its capacity to 7.5 lakh TEUs in the financial year 2025–26. The cranes are expected to become operational in the coming months, according to port officials.

Rathendra Raman, Chairman of SMP Kolkata, said, “The deployment of energy-efficient, electric Mobile Harbour Cranes is a significant step in our operations.” He added that the equipment upgrade would play a vital role in enhancing container terminal output at NSD.

Raman thanked the APSEZ team for deploying the cranes and acknowledged the support and contribution of SMPK staff. The port management noted that this development is expected to boost productivity at NSD and contribute to overall performance improvements across the Kolkata Dock System.