Mongla: Shipping, Textiles and Jute Adviser Brigadier General (Retired) M Sakhawat Hossain today announced that the Mongla port will be upgraded to meet modern and international standards. "The government has taken some projects for the development of Mongla port with ongoing schemes," he stated during a meeting with the high officials of the port at the Mongla Port Authority (MPA) conference room. The meeting was presided over by MPA Chairman Rear Admiral Shaheen Rahman. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the adviser mentioned that the government plans to sign a deed with China to facilitate the development of the port. As part of the project, necessary establishments will be constructed, transforming Mongla into one of South Asia's key connectivity hubs. Highlighting the strategic importance of the port due to its geographical location, Sakhawat noted that Nepal and Bhutan could utilize the seaport to their advantage. He further emphasized the port's significant role in bolstering the country's econ omy. During the meeting, a power point presentation on the port's activities was displayed, showcasing its current operations and future plans. Attendees included members, the director of Administration, heads of various departments, and other high-ranking officials from the MPA. Following the meeting, the adviser toured different areas of the port, including the Pashur Channel, the Vessel Traffic Monitoring and Information System (VTMIS), waste management facilities, and the permanent jetty area. In response to a query, Sakhawat mentioned that the government is making efforts to reopen closed jute mills through private leasing arrangements. He assured that former laborers of these mills would receive job opportunities once they resume operations.
