Mongla Port will be significant for regional connectivity in South Asia: Shipping adviser
The adviser made the remarks while talking to journalists at the yard area of the port after inspecting the Vessel Traffic Management and Information System, Jetty and Waste Management area
Despite having potential, there has been no noteworthy development of Mongla Port over the years, said Shipping, Textiles and Jute Adviser Brigadier General M Sakhawat Hossain, hoping the port will soon become important for regional connectivity in South Asia.
He revealed that a new agreement is being reviewed under the China-funded G2G project, aiming to enhance the port infrastructure. "Under this agreement, two container berths, a yard, and other necessary infrastructure will be constructed," he added.
Sakhawat said this while talking to journalists today (6 November) at the port after inspecting the Vessel Traffic Management and Information System, Jetty and Waste Management area.
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Noting the strategic advantages of Mongla Port for neighbouring countries like Nepal and Bhutan, he highlighted plans to establish two additional yards and expand infrastructure using funds from India's line of credit (LOC).
"Once these developments are completed, the port will take on a new look and be more accessible through rail and water connectivity," he said.
Sakhawat acknowledged Mongla Port's current challenges, including the lack of an approach road, an outdated tariff structure, and limited promotion. To address the publicity issue, the adviser said the port authority has decided to draft a publicity paper and send it to Bangladeshi missions abroad.
On the issue of closed jute mills, Sakhawat stated that the government is working toward reopening these mills privately, prioritising former workers during the rehiring process.
Mongla Port Authority Chairman Rear Admiral Shahin Rahman and others were present during the adviser's visit.
