The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), formerly known as the Kolkata Port, is India’s oldest operating port, established in 1870. Constructed by the British East India Company, it was initially developed to promote and protect British colonial interests, serving as a premier port during that era. Situated approximately 203 kilometers (126 miles) from the sea along the Hooghly River, it holds the distinction of being the country’s only riverine major port.
Before its formal establishment, the area served as a modest riverine market inhabited by weavers and artisans. The port’s strategic location along the Hooghly River facilitated its evolution into a significant maritime trade center, connecting the northern and northeastern regions of India to global trade routes.
To accommodate increasing ship sizes and diverse cargo types, the port underwent continuous development. This included managing the river’s characteristics and expanding facilities downstream, notably leading to the creation of an impounded dock at Haldia.
Enhancing its logistical capabilities, the Calcutta Port Commissioners’ Railway was inaugurated in 1875. This broad-gauge railway connected the docks along the Hooghly River, from Chitpur in the north to Kidderpore Docks in the south, facilitating efficient cargo movement.
Today, SMP operates two primary dock systems: the Kolkata Dock System and the Haldia Dock Complex. The port handles a diverse range of cargo, including containers, dry bulk, and liquid bulk. In the fiscal year 2022–2023, the port managed a total cargo throughput of 65.66 million tonnes, marking a 12.86% increase from the previous year.
Through its rich history and ongoing development, the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port remains a pivotal maritime hub, significantly contributing to India’s trade and economic growth.
