Western Carriers marks east coast debut with new Kolkata cargo terminal

Western Carriers has inaugurated a general cargo terminal at the GCD Yard of the Kolkata Dock System on September 11, 2026, marking its entry into eastern India’s port infrastructure segment under a 15-year agreement with the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority (SMPA).

The launch of the General Cargo Terminal (GCT) represents a significant operational development for Western Carriers, extending its logistics footprint into the port infrastructure space in eastern India. The facility is developed and operated by Western Carriers under the 15-year agreement with SMPA, marking the company’s first operational base on India’s east coast, complementing its existing 42-acre Multimodal Cargo Terminal at Devaliya, Gujarat.

The move into port-based infrastructure underscores Western Carriers’ broader strategy of expanding its logistics and cargo handling capabilities beyond traditional freight operations. Located within the Kolkata Dock System, the terminal connects to the Eastern Railway network through the Sealdah and Budge Budge sections, and also benefits from Kolkata’s extensive road, rail and inland-waterway connectivity.

The terminal is designed to handle dry bulk, break-bulk and all container categories, including 20-foot, 40-foot and specialised containers. Equipment and manpower deployment for Phase I was completed prior to launch, with the company expecting to commence Phase II development within the next 90 days, focusing on enhancing throughput capacity, operational efficiency and service offerings.

The initial estimated investment for civil development is approximately Rs 13.68 crore, based on Port Authority estimates, subject to revision as development progresses. The facility aims to increase Western Carriers’ rail modal share in freight transportation through Kolkata port while providing customers with greater flexibility in cargo handling.

Rajendra Sethia, Chairman and Managing Director, said the inauguration marks a significant milestone in the company’s strategic expansion into eastern India, adding that the terminal provides a strategic platform to serve growing cargo volumes and enhance rail-led freight movement across the critical East-West corridor.