- Assertion (A) is correct because the significance of Kolkata port has indeed declined in recent times. The port, which was once a major port for trade, has seen a reduction in its prominence due to various factors including silt accumulation and shifting trade routes.
- Reason (R) is also true. Kolkata port is indeed faced with the problem of silt accumulation in the Hugli river, which has led to reduced navigability and has affected the port's ability to handle large ships. This has been a major reason for the decline in its significance.
Thus, both statements (A) and (R) are correct, and (R) provides the correct explanation for (A).