JSW Infrastructure is set to significantly enhance its footprint in India’s eastern port landscape after emerging as the top bidder for developing and mechanising two container berths at the Netaji Subhas Dock in Kolkata Port, managed by the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority. This project represents a major milestone in JSW’s port infrastructure strategy and positions the company as a stronger contender in India’s eastern cargo corridor.
Key Highlights of the Deal
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Location | Netaji Subhas Dock, Kolkata Port |
| Investment Value | ₹832 crore |
| Winning Bidder | JSW Infrastructure |
| Royalty Offered | ₹4,678 per TEU |
| Closest Competitor | Adani Ports (bid ₹4,020 per TEU) |
| Project Capacity | 5,00,000 TEUs |
| Contract Tenure | 30 years |
| Development Scope | Reconstruction of berth 8 and mechanisation of berths 7 & 8 with RMQCs |
| Purpose | Container handling with faster and mechanised cargo operations |
| Strategic Significance | Strengthens JSW’s presence on the eastern coastline |
| JSW’s Other Terminal | New Mangalore Port |
Recent TEU Handling Statistics – Kolkata Region
| Port Facility | TEUs Handled (Last FY) |
|---|---|
| Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port | 8,05,000 |
| – Kolkata Dock System | 6,20,000 |
| – Haldia Dock Complex | 1,85,000 |
Key Competitors in the Sector
| Company | Core Business Focus |
|---|---|
| Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd (APSEZ) | India’s largest private port operator; aggressive bidder in infrastructure deals |
| DP World Ltd | Global logistics and port management firm with strong India presence |
| Essar Ports Ltd | Focuses on bulk and breakbulk cargo operations across India |
| Hindustan Port Terminals | Active in container and terminal operations |
| Port Trust/State-Owned Ports | Includes Kolkata Port Authority and others, often directly handling cargo |
Strategic Impact
This deal marks JSW Infrastructure’s second container terminal and a strategic expansion beyond its current New Mangalore Port operations. The aggressive bidding, surpassing even established players like Adani Ports, reflects not only the growing importance of Kolkata as a cargo gateway for East India, Nepal, and Bangladesh but also JSW’s intent to compete at the top tier of India’s port ecosystem.
With Kolkata Port’s access to hinterland markets and the support of mechanised handling infrastructure, this terminal is poised to become a key logistics node on the east coast, enhancing trade efficiency and lowering turnaround time for container cargo.
Glottis Limited 
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