Construction of Two New Mongla Port Jetties Accelerates

Construction works of two more jetties in the second largest sea port of the country. Photo : BSS

As part of the ambitious plan, the government also intends to construct an additional four jetties, significantly boosting the port's container-handling capabilities.

On February 2, 2025, the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) approved a Tk 4,068.23 crore project to modernize and expand Mongla Port's infrastructure. The project, scheduled for completion by December 2028, will be implemented by the Mongla Port Authority (MPA), under the Ministry of Shipping. Of the total cost, Tk 475.33 crore will be financed by the government, while the remaining Tk 3,592.90 crore will be sourced through a loan from China.

Speaking to BSS, Zahirul Haque, Chief Planning Officer of MPA, stated that construction of the two jetties, with a combined cost of Tk 800 crore, is progressing rapidly. With 62% of the work already completed, the project is on track for timely delivery. Haque also confirmed that ECNEC had approved plans for two additional jetties on February 2, 2025, and that a revised Draft Project Proposal (DPP) for these jetties will be submitted for further approval in the upcoming ECNEC meeting.

The project includes dredging efforts to ensure smooth operations for vessels, cargo, and ships. Haque emphasized that once completed, Mongla Port will become a major regional hub for maritime trade.

For the past three decades, the port has relied on outdated and vulnerable machinery to handle cargo and containers. Haque noted that the port is strategically located, making it an essential gateway for trade between Bangladesh and neighboring countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, and India. However, as regional demand increases, the need for expansion has become urgent.

Sources close to the project revealed that the expansion will not only improve cargo and container handling but also expedite trade, increasing the port's competitiveness and regional importance.

Dr. Sheikh Faridul Islam, a regular user of Mongla Port, praised the government’s proactive steps in modernizing the facility, noting that port activities have already ramped up significantly due to ongoing projects.

Commodore Md Shafiqul Islam Sarkar, Project Director of Jetty Construction and a member of MPA, confirmed that the ongoing construction of the No-3 and No-4 jetties will be completed within the next 18 months. Construction of the two additional jetties will commence shortly thereafter.

Rear Admiral Shaheen Rahman, Chairman of MPA, highlighted the geographical significance of Mongla Port, adding that the government's focus on improving container-handling infrastructure is key to positioning the port as a regional trade hub. He noted that the expansion will boost international trade, particularly with Bhutan, Nepal, and China.

During a recent visit to Khulna, Shipping Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hussain unveiled several key projects aimed at upgrading port facilities. These initiatives include dredging the Pashur Channel, constructing new jetties, and enhancing the overall infrastructure. Once completed, the port will be capable of handling 800,000 TEU containers, 4 million metric tonnes of cargo, and 30,000 vehicles annually.

Dr. Hussain also encouraged neighboring countries, including Nepal and Bhutan, to fully utilize Mongla Port to foster regional economic growth and strengthen trade ties.