Balmer Lawrie launches ‘Port Link Express’ export train between Haldia-Kolkata

KOLKATA : In a notable advancement for trade logistics, the inaugural ‘Port Link Express’ export train—a groundbreaking cost-effective and eco-friendly land bridge initiative—embarked for Haldia from the Balmer Lawrie Container Freight Station (CFS). This first train, operated by Hind Terminals, transported 90 export TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) of the MSC Line, marking a significant milestone in logistics for the Haldia-Kolkata-Haldia Corridor.

The train was ceremoniously flagged off by Sri Samrat Rahi, Deputy Chairman of Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPK), in the esteemed presence of Shri Ratna Sekhar Adika, C&MD of Balmer Lawrie; Shri Adhip Pal Chaudhuri, Director of Service Business at Balmer Lawrie; Capt. Nitin Puri, Regional Senior Vice President of MSC; Shri P. Srinivas Rao, Vice President of HTPL; Shri Pallab Bhatta, Senior General Manager of Electrosteel Group Castings; and Smt. Bharati Singh, Assistant Commissioner of Customs. The event was also attended by other senior officials from the Port, Balmer Lawrie & Co. Ltd., MSC Line, the shipper M/s Electrosteel Castings Ltd, and the rail operator M/s Hind Terminals.

The ‘Port Link Express’ is anticipated to greatly enhance trade efficiency by facilitating 2 to 3 trains per week between Haldia and Kolkata. This initiative not only aims to reduce logistics costs but also seeks to minimize the carbon footprint, thereby promoting sustainable trade practices.

The launch event underscored the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in the maritime and logistics sectors. The presence of senior officials from Balmer Lawrie & Co Ltd, MSC Line, Hind Terminals, and the shipper M/s Electrosteel Castings Ltd highlighted the collective endeavor to improve trade logistics and operational efficiency.

The ‘Port Link Express’ initiative is set to become a crucial component of the region’s trade infrastructure, driving economic growth and environmental sustainability.