Kolkata Port

Kolkata Port is the principal seaport on the east coast of India and was the leading port of British India until the early 1970s. Located on the Hugli River, it is the principal maritime gateway to the city of Kolkata. The port handles cargo through several docks and jetties, and its hinterland extends throughout the Gangetic Plain. The port is governed by the Kolkata Port Trust, a statutory corporation responsible for maintaining and developing the port facilities. The port has two separate dock systems – the riverine docks on the Hugli River and the sea-going docks at Kidderpore. The riverine docks are further subdivided into five inner and four outer docks, while the Kidderpore docks comprise two basins – the old dock and the new dock. The port has a depth of 12 meters (39 ft) and a total length of about 17 kilometers (11 mi). It handles about 80 million tons of cargo annually and can berth vessels up to 80,000 dwt. The busiest times in the port area are during the winter when the rivers in the region are navigable.

The port is served by the Kolkata Port Railway, a dedicated rail line connecting it to the city’s suburban railway network and several national highways. The port is also connected to the inland waterways system of India and is a significant hub for river-borne traffic. Kolkata Port is one of the oldest operating ports in the country and has a long and rich history. It was established as a trading port by the British East India Company in the 18th century and played a crucial role in the region’s economic development. The port was the site of the Battle of Plassey in 1757, a significant turning point in the history of British India. In the early 20th century, the port was modernized and expanded by constructing the new dock at Kidderpore. Today, Kolkata Port is a significant contributor to the city’s economy and one of the country’s busiest ports. It handles various cargo, including coal, petroleum, fertilizers, food grains, and manufactured goods. The port is also a significant tourist destination, with many attractions like the Victoria Memorial and the Howrah Bridge.

Kolkata Port is a member of the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH). Kolkata Port has the following export/import requirements:

1. All exports from Kolkata Port must be declared to the Customs Authorities.
2. Export goods must be properly packaged and labeled.
3. A packing list must be submitted along with the shipping documents.
4. Export licenses may be required for certain goods.
5. All imports into Kolkata Port must be declared to the Customs Authorities.
6. Import goods must be properly packaged and labeled.
7. A packing list must be submitted along with the shipping documents.
8. Import licenses may be required for certain goods.