Kolkata, August 6, 2025

 

            In a significant step towards rejuvenating Kolkata’s iconic riverfront, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMP, Kolkata) and M/s Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for beautification of Surinam Ghat and development of Mayer Ghat. The agreement, inked at SMPK’s Head Office, marks a shared commitment to enhancing public infrastructure and reviving the historic charm of the ghats as part of the port’s broader Swachhata Initiatives.

            Shri Rathendra Raman, Chairman, SMP, Kolkata and Shri Samrat Rahi, Deputy Chairman, SMP, Kolkata, along with Cmde. P. R. Hari, Chairman & Managing Director (Retd.) and Capt. P. Sunilkumar, Director, Planning & Personnel (Retd.) from the Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited, graced the MoU signing ceremony. The event also witnessed the presence of several senior officials from both organisations.

            GRSE will beautify Surinam Ghat and will take development work at Mayer Ghat under CSR.

            Speaking of the programme, Shri Raman, remarked, “Our ghats are not just transit points — they are living remnants of Kolkata’s maritime history woven deeply into the cultural ethos of the City of Joy. Through this partnership with GRSE, we are not only investing in infrastructure but also in preserving heritage and promoting civic pride. SMP Kolkata, recognising the social and cultural significance of the projects, has extended full support to GRSE for the execution and subsequent upkeep of the redeveloped sites.”

            This strategic partnership underscores the growing collaboration between public sector entities in reimagining and reviving urban spaces. The beautification of Surinam Ghat and development of Mayer Ghat is expected not only to uplift the local environment but also to reconnect citizens with their rich riverine heritage.

            The initiative stands as a model of how synergy between heritage-conscious planning and corporate responsibility can create lasting impact on the civic and cultural fabric of the city.

            Suriname Ghat marks a poignant chapter in history. Between 1873 and 1916, over 34,000 indentured labourers—mainly from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh—embarked from here to Suriname, shaping its society and culture despite harsh beginnings. The first ship, Lalla Rookh, departed in 1873, carrying 410 passengers.

            Mayer Ghat, close to Bagbazar, holds spiritual significance. It was used by Ma Sarada during her visits to Udbodhan Patrika. Both the ghats echo Kolkata’s rich maritime and cultural legacy, with roots tracing back to the 1500s when European traders frequented the Hooghly.

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