Mongla: The 74th founding anniversary of Mongla Port, the country's second largest seaport, was celebrated today with a pledge to enhance its capacity, profitability, and service offerings. To commemorate the occasion, a variety of events were organized, including the hoisting of the national flag at sunrise, a rally, discussions, and a doa mahfil. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mongla Port Authority (MPA) Chairman Rear Admiral Shaheen Rahman inaugurated the day's festivities as the chief guest. The celebration saw the Mongla Port buildings, main gate, jetty, ships, and the MPA office building in Khulna illuminated. In a unified gesture, all domestic and international ships docked at the jetty sounded their whistles simultaneously at 12:01 am. A rally, spearheaded by MPA Chairman Rear Admiral Shaheen Rahman, commenced from the MPA administrative building and concluded at the main gate of the jetty, traversing various sections of the port. Established in 1950, Mongla Port has faced numerous challe nges over the decades. As noted by a senior official, the port has evolved into one of the country's busiest seaports. The port underwent a name change from Chalna Port Authority to Mongla Port Authority in 1987 as per the Chalna Authority Act. During the discussion, Rear Admiral Shaheen Rahman expressed optimism about the port's future, stating, "Mongla Port will turn into a shipping hub very soon." He highlighted the ongoing construction of four development projects and the installation of 69 navigation buoys in the port channel, facilitating the smooth passage of foreign ships. Currently, the port can accommodate 47 ships with docking facilities at the jetty, mooring, buoys, and anchorage. Additionally, 161 reefer plug points have been established for storing frozen foods, and 32 assisting vessels are available, supported by 136 modern handling equipment and tugboats. The chief guest also presented honorary crests to 32 MPA officials, employees, and 29 port user organizations for their exceptional contr ibutions. A farewell reception was held for MPA officials and employees completing their PRL vacation from December 2, 2023, to December 1, 2024. The event was further graced by the presence of MPA Captain Mohammad Kibria Haque and members Kazi Abed Hossain, Dr. A K M Anisur Rahman, and Kalachand Singha as special guests. Director Md Nuruzzaman delivered the welcome speech.
