In a significant step towards environmentally friendly port operations, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), Kolkata, has commissioned its first two electric-powered Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHCs) at the Netaji Subhas Dock. The deployment, carried out by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), marks the port’s shift from conventional fossil fuel-based cargo handling to cleaner, energy-efficient technology.

With the induction of these electric cranes, the total number of MHCs at the Kolkata Dock System has increased to six. The move is aimed at strengthening SMP Kolkata’s position as a sustainable container hub on India’s eastern coast by enhancing cargo-handling capacity and reducing environmental impact.

To facilitate the operation of the electric cranes, the port is also developing high-capacity electric power infrastructure within the dock premises.

During 2024–25, the Kolkata Dock System handled 6.19 lakh TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units). With the introduction of the new cranes, this figure is projected to rise to 7.5 lakh TEUs in the financial year 2025–26.

Earlier, the port announced that APSEZ would invest Rs 5.69 billion (excluding GST) in deploying advanced cargo-handling equipment. The company secured a five-year operation and maintenance contract to manage container operations at five berths within the Netaji Subhas Dock.

News source: The Print