KoPT to pick bulk cargo handlers for Haldia port through bidding.

Under pressure from the Union ministry of shipping for more than a year, the Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT) recently decided that it will select onshore bulk cargo handlers for Haldia port through bidding—a move that is likely to force other port authorities in India to follow suit.

Aimed at weeding out entrenched monopolies, KoPT's decision on Friday could be the beginning of a long-awaited reform in bulk cargo handling in 12 major ports across India, say experts.

When recent decision is implemented, handling charges for bulk cargo at Haldia port are going to fall sharply.

KoPT has decided that onshore bulk cargo handlers at Haldia port can charge only up to Rs. 119.48 per tonne, whereas the leading handler Ripley and Co. Ltd charges at least Rs. 150, according to its own spokesperson.

Haldia port officials said Ripley typically charges Rs. 250-300 per tonne.

KoPT also decided that handlers will have to pay a minimum royalty of Rs. 13 per tonne. Handlers will be selected on the basis of the revenue share offered to KoPT, and all those who match the best bid will be allowed to offer its services at the port.

It is estimated that around 15 million tonnes (mt) of bulk cargo moved through Haldia in 2013-14.


LIVEMINT