KoPT proposes joint venture with state to develop Tajpur Port

The Chairman of the Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT), MT Krishna Babu sought the state government’s opinion to jointly build the proposed Tajpur Port. The state government had earlier proposed building the port to the centre.

Looking at the economic viability, the KoPT has proposed a centre-state joint venture (JV). However, the development of Sagar Port would mar the economic growth of both the ports, which would be proposed to build in closer proximity.

“The proposed Sagar Port will not be economically viable if the Tajpur Port is developed,” said KoPT chairman, while addressing an interactive conclave at MCC Chamber of Commerce and Industries.

A special purpose vehicle (SPV) was made for building the Sagar Port where 74 per cent stake was given to KoPT and 26 percent to the state for building the Sagar Port.

The KoPT chairman said that the Centre has asked for state’s opinion on building any other port where the SPV can be given like in Sagar Port. The complimentary facilities can also be given.

The Sagar Port will have an investment over Rs 10,000 crore. The Centre also additionally provided Rs 515 crore as a grant.

Recently, West Bengal Finance Minister Amit Mitra said the state Cabinet had cleared the Tajpur Port 

project and the first phase  would be completed in three years.

A Group of Secretaries (GoS) headed by state Chief Secretary Basudeb Banerjee would be set up to study the feasibility report prepared by Crisil and a report would be submitted to the Chief Minister, he said.

“The (Tajpur) port will be built on reclaimed land so there is no need for making any acquisition,” Mitra had said.