HC allows HBT to remove equipment from Haldia
HBT had abandoned two berths at Haldia citing unsafe working conditions
Bangalore: The Calcutta high court on Thursday allowed Haldia Bulk Terminals Pvt. Ltd (HBT) to remove equipment from the two berths it had abandoned on 31 October at Haldia citing unsafe working conditions.
HBT, a joint venture between Mumbai-listed ABG Infralogistics Ltd and French shipping firm Louis Dreyfus Armateurs SA, walked out of the Haldia Dock Complex facility two years into its 10-year contract.
After hearing separate petitions filed by Kolkata Port Trust and HBT, the court allowed HBT to remove its equipment without any interference from the Union government-controlled port, said at least two people who were present in the court.
The East Midnapore district superintendent of police will have to personally supervise the removal of equipment. The court will appoint a special officer to ensure that the equipment is removed within six weeks to at least 50km beyond the Haldia Dock Complex and to file a report with the court on compliance.
In its petition, Kolkata Port Trust had sought the court’s permission to restrict HBT from removing its equipment in order to secure its claim of ₹ 233 crore from the cargo handler arising from its exit decision.
HBT had opposed this and also sought compensation of ₹ 975 crore from Kolkata Port Trust claiming that it had to abandon work at the terminal because of various failures of the port.
The court said that the matter of compensation sought by HBT will be referred to arbitration.
A spokesman for HBT declined to comment. A spokesman for Kolkata Port could not be reached for comment immediately on his mobile phone.
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!