PM Modi Commissions APSEZ's Haldia Terminal, India's First Fully Automated Dry Bulk Facility
Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the Haldia Bulk Terminal (HBT) on Saturday, dedicating this state-of-the-art facility to the nation. Located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, the terminal marks a significant milestone as India's first fully automated dry bulk handling facility, designed to enhance maritime infrastructure on the eastern coast.
Strategic Importance and Capacity
The Haldia Bulk Terminal is strategically positioned on the western bank of the Hooghly River within the Haldia Dock Complex of Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata. With an annual capacity of 4 million metric tons per annum (MMTPA), it is equipped to handle imported coal and a variety of dry bulk commodities such as bauxite and limestone. This facility addresses the critical demand from the eastern coast, which accounts for approximately 60% of India's dry bulk imports, serving key industries in West Bengal, Odisha, and Jharkhand.
Advanced Automation and Infrastructure
Developed under a 30-year concession through the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) model by HDC Bulk Terminal Ltd, the terminal showcases advanced automation features. Key infrastructure includes:
- A 2,000-ton Railway Wagon Loading System (RWLS) for efficient cargo transfer.
- A 1.54 km dedicated railway line enabling direct ship-to-train evacuation.
- Refurbished jetty and advanced conveyor systems to automate processes.
- Two stacker-cum-reclaimers for automated stockyard management.
- Two mobile harbour cranes to accelerate vessel discharge.
These innovations eliminate jetty dumping, reduce cargo loss, and ensure cleaner, safer, and more sustainable operations, setting a new benchmark for efficiency in bulk cargo movement.
Impact on Logistics and Industry
Ashwani Gupta, Whole-time Director and CEO of APSEZ, emphasized the terminal's role in strengthening industrial supply chains. By lowering logistics costs and turnaround times, the facility supports Prime Minister Modi's vision of modern multimodal infrastructure under initiatives like the Sagarmala programme and the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. The direct rail connections and automated systems are expected to materially benefit the steel, aluminium, and power sectors in the region.
Execution and Future Prospects
Construction commenced on July 14, 2023, and was completed within the scheduled window, demonstrating APSEZ's capability to deliver projects on time. The terminal's commissioning reflects a structural upgrade for bulk cargo movement through India's eastern maritime corridor, enhancing the nation's trade and economic resilience.
