Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam has announced an ambitious 180-day plan to radically overhaul Mongla Port management, pledging to transform the facility into a modern maritime hub that rivals Chattogram Port.
Following his first official inspection of the port on Saturday, the minister underscored that the government’s new priority plan aims to unlock the economic potential of the south-western region, while placing national interests at the heart of all future international development agreements.
Addressing journalists during a post-visit exchange, the minister stated that the port’s critical role in the national economy and international trade necessitates an immediate resolution of existing challenges.
He confirmed that development strategies will be formulated following direct consultations with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, a move expected to yield significant improvements in regional employment, connectivity, and overall economic performance.
Rabiul detailed a government vision to centralise import-export activities around Mongla by capitalising on the vast potential of the south-western districts.
He expressed confidence that by ensuring necessary facilities and utilizing the port’s full capacity, Mongla will rapidly evolve into a fully functional and effective gateway similar to Chattogram.
As part of the government’s 180-day priority work plan, visible changes are expected at the port within the next six months.
The minister further assured that there would be no developmental disparity between Chattogram and Mongla, as the objective is to transform the latter into a high-capacity, modern facility.
Regarding the status of cancelled or suspended development contracts with neighbouring countries, Rabiul asserted that such agreements would be reconsidered only if they align with national interest.
He noted that any previous contracts that resulted in losses for the country would undergo a rigorous evaluation before any possibility of reactivation.
Rabiul also identified infrastructure priorities, including the proposed construction of a suspension bridge over the Mongla River.
To enhance logistics and connectivity, he announced initiatives to increase the number of trains on the Mongla-Khulna railway route by fast-tracking the addition of new rail coaches and engines.
The announcements followed a high-level meeting at the Mongla Port Authority’s conference room.
The session was attended by Dr Sheikh Faridul Islam, state minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Dr Nurunnahar Chowdhury, secretary of the Ministry of Shipping; and Rear Admiral Shahin Rahman, chairman of the Mongla Port Authority, alongside other senior officials.
