Western Carriers (India) Limited (WCIL) has secured the development and operations contract for a General Cargo Terminal (GCT) at the GCD Yard of the Kolkata Dock System under the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority (SMPA). The terminal will handle containers and other cargo and will be operated by Western Carriers for 15 years. The project is expected to strengthen cargo handling infrastructure and improve multimodal logistics connectivity in Eastern India.
The Kolkata Dock System is an important trade gateway for the eastern region. It has connections to road, rail and inland waterways, allowing cargo to move through different transport modes. The dock system is also connected to the Eastern Railway network through the Sealdah and Budge Budge sections. This connectivity is expected to support the movement of cargo to and from the terminal and improve access to regional markets.
The terminal is already operational. Western Carriers will now begin the next stage of development, with a focus on increasing cargo handling capacity, improving operations and expanding services for customers.According to initial estimates from the port authority, the planned civil infrastructure development is expected to involve an investment of around ₹13.68 crore. The amount may change as the project progresses and detailed development plans are finalised.
Rajendra Sethia, Chairman and Managing Director, Western Carriers (India) Limited, said the General Cargo Terminal adds an important asset to the company’s logistics network. He said the terminal’s location at a major trade gateway in Eastern India provides an opportunity to increase cargo handling capacity and improve multimodal connectivity. The company will focus on operational efficiency, wider services and long-term value for customers and other stakeholders.
The project comes as India continues to expand its logistics infrastructure under programmes such as the National Logistics Policy, PM Gati Shakti, Sagarmala, Bharatmala, Dedicated Freight Corridors and the Logistics Efficiency Enhancement Program. These initiatives are aimed at improving connections between roads, railways, ports and other transport networks while reducing delays and improving the movement of goods.
Western Carriers operates as a multimodal, rail-focused 4PL logistics company. Its services combine road, rail, water and air transport with other supply chain services. The company was founded as a rail-focused logistics business by Rajendra Sethia in 1972 and was incorporated as Western Carriers (India) Limited in 2013. Over the past five decades, it has expanded into integrated logistics services for customers with complex transportation and supply chain requirements.
The new terminal will add to the company’s infrastructure network and strengthen its presence in port-linked logistics. Western Carriers said it will focus on improving cargo movement, expanding terminal services and supporting more efficient supply chains in Eastern India through the project.
