Mongla:The government's strategic focus on Mongla Sea Port is attracting increased domestic and international investment, with the expectation that the port will become a key economic hub in Bangladesh's south-western region. The investments are anticipated to enhance the port's capacity, generate significant employment opportunities, and promote industrial growth across the Khulna, Bagerhat, Satkhira, and Jashore districts.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, ongoing infrastructure projects at Mongla Port are poised to transform it into a state-of-the-art seaport. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has visited the port twice since assuming office, laying the foundation for two new jetties on November 5, with a project cost of Taka 4,068.23 crore. Financing includes a Taka 3,592.90 crore loan from China's Exim Bank and Taka 475.33 crore from the Bangladesh government. The project is set for completion by December 2028, increasing the port's annual container handling capacity to approximately 3,94,000 TEUs.
Dredging of the Pashur Channel is also in progress under a Taka 1,538.19 crore project, anticipated to finish by December 2029. This will enable ships with drafts of 9.5 to 10 meters to dock directly at the port jetties. Additionally, two powerful tugboats and various operational vessels are being procured to enhance the port's efficiency and security.
Further developments include the construction of the Khulna-Mongla railway line under an Indian-funded Line of Credit project and an initiative nearing completion to protect the marine environment from ship waste and oil spills. State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Sheikh Faridul Islam, expressed optimism that the Prime Minister's visits would stimulate further investment, turning the port into an economic centerpiece for the region.
Rear Admiral Arif Ahmed Mustafa, chairman of Mongla Port Authority, highlighted a major project involving the construction of new jetties, a container yard, and a freight station to significantly boost storage capacity and expedite cargo handling. Furthermore, plans are underway to introduce direct container train services from Dhaka to Mongla Port, enhancing transportation efficiency.
Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam remarked on the strategic opportunities presented by Mongla Port, citing ongoing modernization efforts and infrastructure development aimed at establishing it as a major economic hub. The proximity to Kolkata and improved connectivity are expected to offer commercial advantages over Chattogram Port.
Business figures, including Mosharraf Hossain and Zulfikar Ali, have acknowledged the potential benefits of the port's development initiatives while pointing out challenges such as navigability issues in the Pashur River. They emphasized the need for long-term planning and government oversight to address these challenges effectively.