Kolkata Port Ensures Smooth Nepal Cargo Amid Political Turmoil

Shyama Prasad Mookerjee (SMP) Port, Kolkata, has assured uninterrupted handling of Nepal-bound cargo despite the political crisis following Nepalese PM K P Sharma Oli’s resignation and protests in the country.

SMP Port Deputy Chairman Samrat Rahi highlighted that most Nepalese shipments are transported via rail, supported by container freight stations and warehousing near the India–Nepal border, ensuring minimal delays. While Nepal accounts for a small share of Kolkata’s total cargo, trade ties remain strategically significant.

Under the India–Nepal Treaty of Transit, Nepal’s transit trade primarily passes through Kolkata, Haldia, and Visakhapatnam ports. India is Nepal’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade of USD 8.02 billion in FY 2024–25. Key Indian exports include petroleum, iron and steel, automobiles, machinery, and cereals, while Nepal exports cardamom, iron sheets, edible oil, plywood, and jute to India.

News source: Maritime Gateway