Cargo ship launches inaugural trip on Sultanganj-Maya Naval route to India
According to BIWTA data, 35 lakh tonnes of stone amounting to $69.1 million were imported through Chattogram and other seaports within just two and a half months from 1 March to 10 May last year.
The naval connectivity between Bangladesh's Rajshahi and India's Murshidabad has been established with the movement of a cargo ship from Sultanganj Ferry Terminal in Godagari upazila.
State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury officially inaugurated the Sultanganj port and the start of goods shipment through the route at 11am today (12 February).
Cargo ship MV Saif Siam Shafin left for Maya Ferry Terminal in Murshidabad, India, with 11.5 metric tonnes of garments byproducts.
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After inaugurating the waterway, Khalid Mahmud said, "Discussions are ongoing with India regarding the Maya-Sultanganj protocol. Dredging is required to maintain this route permanently."
He also mentioned that a corresponding project has been initiated in this regard.
The state minister noted that the presence of river erosion in the area poses a challenge, given the distinct nature of the river.
He expressed the commitment to take measures to preserve the waterway and ensure the sustainability of the port.
President of Chapainawabganj Chamber of Commerce and Industries Md Abdul Waheed highlighted the reopening of the seaport after six decades and expressed optimism that this development would facilitate the import of stones from India.
"Our distance will be reduced by about 120 km. Besides, import and export of food products will be facilitated," he said.
Following the inauguration of the Sultanganj Naval Port, at around 12pm, a ship named Deshbangla left for Sultanganj with 100 metric tons of stone from Maya Naval Port in India's Murshidabad, said Director of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) Dr Rafiqul Islam.
Mayor of Rajshahi City Corporation AHM Khairuzzaman Liton, Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma along with public representatives and business leaders were present during the inauguration.
Previously, Md Mostafa Kamal, senior secretary of the shipping ministry, told The Business Standard, "The distance from Maya port to Sultanganj port is 19 kilometres. It will initially be launched on a trial basis. It will not only carry goods, but also passengers. As a result, it will be beneficial for both countries."
According to BIWTA data, 35 lakh tonnes of stone amounting to $69.1 million were imported through Chattogram and other seaports within just two and a half months from 1 March to 10 May last year.
