Logistics Growth

As global supply chains shift toward greener practices, West Bengal is leading the charge with initiatives in green logistics. From leveraging inland waterways to reduce carbon footprints to integrating renewable energy in logistics parks, sustainability is at the heart of our strategy. Furthermore, the "Blue Economy"—focusing on fisheries, maritime tourism, and coastal trade—is further set to unlock significant opportunities

- Saumitra Mohan

West Bengal is a state uniquely positioned because it offers many advantages critical to the logistics sector. It is the sixth-largest economy in India, with a Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Rs 17 lakh crore. Growing at an impressive annual rate of 15.24 per cent, West Bengal is one of the fastest-growing states in the country. With an estimated population of over 100 million, the state represents both a massive consumption base and an ever-growing industrial hub.

What truly sets West Bengal apart, however, is its strategic geographical advantage. Positioned as the gateway to India's Northeast and land-locked neighbours like Bhutan and Nepal, it also acts as India's vital conduit to Southeast Asia. This strategic geographic significance makes West Bengal the ideal destination for investments in the logistics sector.

The state's logistics sector is poised for exponential growth, with the current market size estimated at USD 20 billion. Our key infrastructure includes strategically-located sea-ports in the form of the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (erstwhile Kolkata Port Trust) and Haldia Dock Complex. Together, they serve as major gateways for cargo, offering robust multi-modal connectivity. Together, these ports handle over 65 million metric tons of cargo annually. The proposed Tajpur Deep-Sea Port is likely to be a game-changer that will accommodate large vessels and significantly reduce logistics costs.

Extensive inland waterways provide immense opportunities for development of tourism, passenger and cargo services. With 4,593 kilometers of navigable waterways, including the National Waterway-1 and the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route, we are fostering greener and more efficient cargo transport systems. These waterways link us not only to Northeast India, but also to Southeast Asia and beyond, providing a cost-effective alternative to road and rail.