Khulna: The interim government has initiated efforts to modernize Mongla port, aiming to expand its activities, leading to the rapid progress of construction work on two additional jetties at the country’s second-largest seaport. Plans are also underway to construct four more new jetties to enhance container handling capacity and transform the port into a modern, world-class maritime hub.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) approved a TK 4,068.23 crore project for the expansion and modernization of Mongla port facilities on February 2. The Mongla Port Authority (MPA), under the Ministry of Shipping, is set to implement the project by December 2028. Of the total cost, TK 475.33 crore will be sourced from the government, while the remaining TK 3,592.90 crore will come through a loan from China.
Chief Planning Officer Zahirul Haque of MPA noted that at least 62 percent of the construction work on the two jetties, costing TK 800 crore, has b
een completed. The ECNEC has already approved the plan for two additional jetties as of February 2, 2025. Haque mentioned that a revised Draft Project Proposal (DPP) for the previously planned jetties will be sent to ECNEC for approval in the next meeting. A consultant has been appointed, and dredging works are ongoing to ensure the smooth movement of vessels, cargo, and ships.
Haque emphasized that Mongla Port will become a significant regional hub after the completion of the jetties and other associated projects. Currently, cargo and containers at Mongla Port are operated using outdated and vulnerable machinery. However, the port’s geographical position makes it a suitable location for importing and exporting goods to and from Nepal, Bhutan, and India through the country’s southwest region. Haque highlighted the need for port expansion due to the increased interest from neighboring countries in utilizing the port.
Sources indicate that cargo and container handling will increase, and export and import trad
ing will accelerate after the jetties’ completion. Dr. Sheikh Faridul Islam, a user of the port, noted that Mongla port activities have already intensified due to various steps taken by the interim government.
Commodore Md Shafiqul Islam Sarkar, Project Director of Jetty Construction and member of MPA, stated that the ongoing construction of jetties no-3 and no-4 would be completed within one and a half years, with construction of the additional jetties starting soon.
MPA Chairman Rear Admiral Shaheen Rahman discussed the geographical significance of Mongla Port, asserting the government’s commitment to developing the port into a regional hub by enhancing its container handling infrastructure. He emphasized that international trade could further expand with Bhutan, Nepal, and China through the project’s implementation.
Referring to a recent visit by Shipping Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hussain, the MPA chairman mentioned several key projects announced during a meeting with port official
s in Khulna. These initiatives include dredging the Pashur Channel, upgrading port facilities, and constructing two new jetties, which will enable the port to handle 800,000 TEU containers, 4 million metric tonnes of cargo, and 30,000 vehicles annually. Rahman also encouraged neighboring Nepal and Bhutan to utilize Mongla port to boost regional trade and economic growth.