Bagerhat, Nov 06 (V7N) — Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain, Advisor to the Ministry of Shipping, announced that Mongla Port is on the brink of significant development as part of a new strategic plan to boost its capacity and regional relevance. Speaking with journalists at Mongla Bandar Jetty at 10:30 am on Wednesday, Dr. Hossain revealed that a container terminal project, funded by China, is set to begin soon, with the contract expected to be finalized within two years. This development is anticipated to reduce the heavy pressure currently on Chittagong Port, Bangladesh's primary container facility.

Dr. Hossain emphasized the strategic value of Mongla Port for regional connectivity, particularly for neighboring countries Bhutan and Nepal, due to its comprehensive transport links, including road, sea, and rail networks. Additionally, the development of Akhaura and Balla land ports is underway to improve access to Mongla Port, which will be further supported by Indian-funded projects.

"The implementation of these two development projects from China and India will transform the future of Mongla Port over the next two years," Dr. Hossain stated. He highlighted the potential for the port to enhance regional trade flows and position itself as a key logistic hub for South Asia.

The exchange meeting was also attended by Mongla Port Authority Chairman, Rear Admiral Md. Shaheen Rahman, and other port officials.

Prior to the meeting, Dr. Hossain toured various sections of Mongla Port, including the animal channel, VTMIS, port jetty, and waste management area. He departed for Dhaka later in the evening.

END/AHS/AJ