Kolkata port charts independent ship repair strategy

Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPK), has formally exited its joint venture structure with Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), while reaffirming its commitment to continued collaboration aimed at strengthening India’s ship repair ecosystem.

An official statement said the two entities marked the conclusion of their joint venture with the transfer of ₹5.94 crore as shared profits generated by the Cochin–Kolkata Ship Repair Unit. The cheque was handed over to SMPK Chairman Rathendra Raman by CSL Chairman and Managing Director Madhu S. Nair during a visit to Cochin Shipyard’s ship repair facilities in Kochi.

The amount represents the profits accrued from the joint ship repair operations undertaken by the two organisations, underscoring the commercial viability of domestic ship repair infrastructure.

Speaking on the occasion, Raman said the successful financial outcome highlights the growing competitiveness of Indian ship repair yards. He noted that collaborative models involving ports and shipyards play a crucial role in advancing the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative by reducing dependence on overseas repair facilities.

While the joint venture structure has now been wound up, SMPK has signalled a stronger focus on independently expanding ship repair capabilities at Kolkata. The port plans to scale up facilities and attract a larger share of repair and maintenance work, leveraging its strategic location and existing maritime infrastructure.

Both SMPK and Cochin Shipyard indicated that they will continue to explore opportunities for cooperation in the future, even as Kolkata Port pursues a more ambitious and autonomous ship repair growth strategy.