Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), Kolkata, is planning to float a tender within the next two months for the development of an agro processing zone on port-owned land, as part of its broader land monetisation and port-led industrialisation strategy.

The port authority, formerly known as Kolkata Port Trust, has identified significant land parcels for industrial development. Under its land monetisation plan, SMP Kolkata has around 100 acres of land available across the city and adjoining areas, which it aims to leverage to attract industry and generate additional revenue streams.

Speaking on the initiative, Samrat Rahi, Deputy Chairperson, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, said that preparations for the agro processing zone are at an advanced stage and the tendering process will be initiated shortly. He added that the port has also received expressions of interest for setting up a toy manufacturing zone.

In addition to the agro processing zone, the port is planning to develop multiple sector-specific industrial clusters, including zones for tea processing, textiles, leather, and toy manufacturing. According to the port authority, land for these proposed zones has already been earmarked and is available for prospective industry players.

Rahi said the port is considering developing these industrial zones under a land lease model, which would allow private players to set up manufacturing and processing units while the port retains ownership of the land. This approach is expected to help optimise the use of underutilised port land, reduce idle assets, and support industrial growth linked to port infrastructure.

The proposed development aligns with the Centre’s focus on port-led development and multimodal logistics integration. By facilitating value-added activities such as agro and tea processing near port facilities, SMP Kolkata aims to strengthen cargo generation, improve logistics efficiency, and create employment opportunities in the region.

The upcoming tender for the agro processing zone is expected to be a key step in advancing these objectives.