Dhaka:Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts to develop modern ports, skilled seafarers, a robust regulatory system, and safe water transport. He highlighted that merely joining international maritime conventions or enacting laws is insufficient without focusing on safe ships, clean ports, skilled manpower, and sustainable maritime trade.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister, who also oversees Road Transport and Bridges and Railways, spoke as the chief guest at an event organized by the Department of Shipping in honor of World Maritime Day 2026. The theme of this year's event was 'From Policy to Practice: Achieving Excellence in the Maritime Sector.'
Rabiul noted that the government's initiatives aim to transform the maritime sector into a safe, modern, technology-driven, environmentally friendly, and internationally competitive industry. He stressed the need to modernize and automate port operations, enhance capacity, and reduce cargo handling times. Additionally, he highlighted plans to strengthen the Department of Shipping's regulatory and inspection capabilities, ensuring adherence to international safety and environmental standards.
The minister praised the country's seafarers as valuable maritime resources and ambassadors abroad, emphasizing ongoing investment in their welfare, training, and skill development. He also mentioned initiatives for the sustainable development of inland waterways and coastal shipping, river pollution prevention, and safe navigation.
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Khondkar Misbah ul Azim, attending as a special guest, underscored the link between maritime security and prosperity. He advocated for enhanced maritime boundary security, information sharing, and coordination among relevant agencies, alongside investments in maritime education and technology.
The event highlighted Chattogram Port's current handling capacity of 3.4 million containers annually, with the future Matarbari Deep Sea Port expected to handle an additional four million containers. The new port, set to open in 2029, will receive large ships, thus reducing transportation time and costs, strengthening Bangladesh's role in global supply chains.
Speakers at the event stressed the development of a safe, environmentally friendly, technology-driven water transport system, leveraging the country's extensive inland waterways. It was noted that 24 ship recycling yards have met international standards, with more undergoing certification, aiming for competitiveness in safety, welfare, and environmental standards.
A national action plan is being formulated under the International Maritime Organization's 'Green Voyage 2050' to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping. Emphasis is placed on transitioning to green shipping with low-carbon fuels, energy-efficient operations, and sustainable ship recycling.
The programme also showcased progress in maritime education, with 15 academies and one university producing skilled seafarers and marine professionals. Since 2014, over 138 female cadets have graduated from these institutions. The event was attended by senior officials, port authority representatives, and maritime professionals.