The Kolkata Port Trust will begin commercial transloading at the Sandheads from September prior to graduating to total cargo handling.
"We are going to start commercial transloading from September with SAIL. We have been able to become at par in terms of cost with Dhamra port by reducing charges by Rs 200 per tonne for users," Kolkata Port Trust Chairman M T Krishna Babu said today at the MCC Chamber of Commerce.
"Transaloders were ready by the partner Jindal ITF, but our cost was higher by Rs 200 per tonne for users. Now, we have reduced our warfage charges by Rs 50, while Jindals have reduced Rs 100 and another benefit of Rs 40 is available as the cargo is treated for coastal movement. Now, we are competitive with Dhamra port," he said.
The chairman said the government was focusing on coastal cargo movement and a lot of infrastructure had been developed to pave the way for coastal smooth cargo movement. Krishna Babu also raised the issue of state administration's non-cooperation in creating a conducive environment to allow edible oil on rail tankers. As a result there is a cost implication to consumer of Re 1 per litre and threat of adulteration.
Currently, the bulk commodity is moved via truck.
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