On the momentous occasion of the 150th anniversary of the Kolkata Port Trust, a significant renaming ceremony took place. This crucial port now bears the name of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, honoring his impactful contribution to Indian history. The port, known for its two distinct dock systems—Kolkata Docks situated in Kolkata and a deep water dock at the Haldia Dock Complex, Haldia—remains a pivotal landmark in India.
The History of Kolkata Port Trust
The Kolkata Port Trust holds the title as the oldest active port in India. Its construction traces back to the era of the British East India Company, marking a significant period of Indian maritime history. Despite numerous changes over the centuries, the port continues to symbolize an essential gateway to Eastern India.
In its prime, the port was considered the country’s most critical port. It served as a significant hub for trade and commerce, supporting vast hinterland regions spanning Eastern India, including areas such as Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, it was a crucial access point for the two land-locked Himalayan Kingdoms of Nepal and Bhutan, playing a vital role in their economic development.
However, the independence era witnessed a decline in the port’s importance due to several factors. These include the Partition of India in 1947, a reduction in the size of the port’s hinterland, and economic stagnation in eastern India.
Management and Governance
The Kolkata Port Trust operates as an autonomous entity under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Shipping. The Government of India administers it through the Major Port Trusts Act, 1963, ensuring it functions as per the nation’s maritime law regulations.
Unique Location
One distinguishing feature of the Kolkata Port is its status as the only riverine Major Port in India. The port is strategically located 232 kilometers upstream from the Sandheads, making its navigational channel one of the longest globally.
| Location | Kilometers Up-Stream from Sandheads |
|---|---|
| Kolkata Port | 232 |
Major Ports in India
India takes pride in its maritime infrastructure, boasting 13 major ports. These include Kolkata Port, Paradip Port, New Mangalore Port, Cochin Port, Jawaharlal Nehru Port, Mumbai Port, Kandla Port, Visakhapatnam Port, Chennai Port, Tuticorin Port, Ennore Port, Mormugao Port, and Port Blair Port. Each port plays a distinctive role in supporting the country’s trade and commerce dynamics.