Kolkata, Nov 30 (IANS) The Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT), which is facing some financial challenges, is eyeing to effectively utilize the l00 acres of land from about 3,000 acres of prime property which it owns in the city.
It plans to lease it out for non-port related activities, aiming to get good returns from real estate.
The proposal of leasing out of the vacant 100 acres of land, which is owned by the Central government, came from the West Bengal government. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has sought the consent of the shipping ministry.
‘We have about 3,000 acres of port-related properties in Kolkata and 7,000 acres in Haldia (in East Midnapore district). A proposal came from the state government for the commercial use of 100 acres of vacant land in the metropolis. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has sought Centre’s approval for that,’ KoPT Chairman M.L. Meena told IANS Wednesday.
Meena said if the proposal got Central approval, then the KoPT would be able to earn good returns from the prime property lying vacant.
The port is currently facing some financial challenges like a huge pension liability for nearly 30,000 pensioners and added pressure for the implementation of new pay scale for its about 10,000 staff. Besides, its cargo volume has also been decreasing, which is a major area of concern.
For the use of port properties on non-port-related activities, clearance from the Shipping Ministry is required.
On when the proposal may get Centre’s approval, Meena said, ‘It is not in my jurisdiction. Since the land is owned by the Central government, the proposal has to be sanctioned also by the Cabinet.’
