Upgrading the Mongla Port

Mongla port is the second largest seaport in Bangladesh. After opening the Padam Bridge, the activities in the port have also increased. A project for upgrading and modernising the port is also going on. It is financed by Indian credit along with the government's funds. The port has good inland connections to the business hub of Khulna and Kolkata. Upgrading the port will improve the sub-regional connectivity. The Khulna-Mongla Port rail project will add to the maritime links for the movement of goods. Three neighbouring counties -- India, Nepal and Bhutan--will also benefit from the port's modernisation.

The port's cargo handling capacity will be enhanced as larger ships can be handled at the reconstructed and extended jetties. So, the revenue collection from the port will also increase soon. 180 ships can be handled in addition to the existing capacity. The turnaround time of a vessel will also reduce. There is also an expectation that 400,000 TEUs of containers and 15 million tonnes of goods can be handled. There will also be residential facilities for the officials and employees of the port. Marine and mechanical facilities will also be created.

The most important thing is to complete the project as soon as possible while maintaining the work quality. Otherwise, it will not be possible to tap the optimal benefit from the investment.

Mamun Khan

Jessore