Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam on Saturday said the government aims to bring visible changes to Mongla Port within the next 180 days, as part of a special action plan to modernise the country’s second seaport.
The announcement came during a media briefing following his first official visit to the port.
The minister said Mongla Port has been given priority under the government’s six-month roadmap, with a focus on improving management, infrastructure and operational efficiency.
“Considering Mongla’s importance to the national economy and foreign trade, we will identify existing challenges and place them before the Prime Minister. Based on her directives, development initiatives will be undertaken that will boost employment, connectivity and the regional economy,” he said.
Sheikh Rabiul Alam said the government plans to turn Mongla Port into a major import-export hub by tapping the vast potential of the southwestern region. If adequate facilities are ensured and full capacity is utilised, he added, Mongla could operate as efficiently as Chattogram Port.
He stressed that there would be no disparity in development between Chattogram and Mongla ports, reiterating the government’s commitment to transforming Mongla into a modern and capable maritime gateway.
Responding to questions, the minister said previously cancelled or suspended agreements with neighbouring countries would be reviewed with national interest as the top priority. Any deal deemed harmful would be carefully reassessed before reinstatement.
He also highlighted the need for a suspension bridge over the Mongla River and announced plans to introduce additional trains on the Mongla-Khulna route by adding new coaches and engines.
State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Dr Sheikh Foridul Islam, Shipping Ministry Secretary Dr Nurunnahar Chowdhury, and Mongla Port Authority Chairman Rear Admiral Shahin Rahman were also present during the visit.
