Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT) has received bids from three logistics companies (two Indian, and one Singapore-based) for mechanised dry bulk cargo operations at berths 2 and 8 at the Haldia port.

The berths were previously operated by the ABG-LDA run Haldia Bulk Terminals (HBT). KoPT invited fresh bids to operate the berths following the exit of HBT in October 2012. January 11 was the last date for submission of bids.

“We have received applications from three companies against the fresh tender. The companies are TM International Logistics Ltd (TMILL), Boxtrans Logistics (India) Services Pvt Ltd, and a consortium of Singapore-based Ocean Connection Pte Ltd and Seapol Group of India,” a senior official of the port trust told Business Line .

Of the three bidders, TMILL – a joint venture of Tata Steel Ltd, NYK Holding (Europe) BV and IQ Martrade, Germany – currently handles cargo at berth No 12 at Haldia port.

Tata Steel holds majority stake in the joint venture.

As per the tender document, the successful bidder will have to supply, install, operate and maintain different cargo handling equipment as well as undertake all required onboard and onshore cargo handling operations for seven years.

The proposed contractor should install multi-harbour cranes and offer end-to-end dry bulk cargo handling solutions to the port users.

According to the official, KoPT is currently evaluating the applications submitted by the companies.

Previous contractor

HBT sent a letter to KoPT seeking termination of the 10 years’ contract mid-way (in the third year) citing law and order issues. The company had also demanded higher cargo offering to berths 2 and 8.

Both KoPT and HBT are fighting legal battles at the Calcutta High Court over compensation for the termination of contract.

> ayan.pramanik@thehindu.co.in

Related Topics