[🇧🇩] Sea Ports/Air Ports/River Ports/Bridges/Mega Projects

[Saif]

China to upgrade Mongla port

The interim government on Sunday approved a project aiming at upgrading the container terminal at the Mongla port in Bagerhat with a loan of Tk 3,592.90 crore from China.

www.newagebd.net

China to upgrade Mongla port
Staff Correspondent 03 February, 2025, 00:41

Mongla port. | File photo

The interim government on Sunday approved a project aiming at upgrading the container terminal at the Mongla port in Bagerhat with a loan of Tk 3,592.90 crore from China.

The Bangladesh government will contribute the remaining Tk 475.33 crore to the overall project cost of Tk 4,068.23 crore approved by the executive committee of the National Economic Council at the Planning Commission at Agargaon in the capital Dhaka.

At a post-meeting briefing, planning adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud said that the port would be developed as a hub, serving the regional countries like Bhutan and Nepal.

China has long been showing a keen interest in financing the project, he said.

Shipping ministry officials said that the same project had been submitted to the ECNEC in 2020 seeking approval, but the proposal was sent back then.

Under the project now to be concluded in 2028, the port authorities will construct a container terminal with equipment, delivery yard, multi-storied car sheds, removal of sinking wreckages and improvement of main roads.

Lack of infrastructures in the port has failed to attract ships, with about 40 per cent of its berthing facility remaining unutilised.

At present, the port authorities have been implementing several projects, including the upgrading of Mongla port project at Tk 6,015 crore since 2020 with Tk 4,459 crore from an Indian loan.

The planning adviser said that foreign loans were bad, but those became burden if not invested in viable projects.

Fearing that the overall debt payment would face more pressure in the coming days due to the implementation of the mega projects by the ousted Awami League regime, he suggested higher revenue mobilisation by the National Board of Revenue.

The day’s meeting, presided over by chief adviser Muhammd Yunus, approved 13 projects at Tk 12,532.28 crore. Of the cost, Tk 4,097.23 crore will come from the local sources and Tk 7,328.95 crore from the foreign sources.

Of the approved 13 projects, nine are new projects while four are revised projects.

The other projects include Uttar Kattali catchment sanitation in Chattogram metropolis (Tk 2,797.22 crore), improved seed production and development of rice, wheat and corn, 3rd phase (Tk 474.68 crore), modernisation and development (2nd phase) of seed production, processing and distribution management of BADC (Tk 292.86 crore), food safety testing capacity development (Tk 2,409.70 crore), digging some four evaluation-cum-development wells of Titas and Kamta fields (Tk 1,255 crore), conducting three-seismic survey at Habiganj, Bakhrabad and Meghna fields (Tk 454.25 crore) and digging Sylhet-12 number well (oil well) (Tk 255.25 crore).​

 

[Saif]

About Tk 150b project for preparing construction of Bay terminal in Chattogram

The World Bank will finance Tk 102.72 billion and the government provide Tk 46.37 billion from the state exchequer.

en.prothomalo.com

About Tk 150b project for preparing construction of Bay terminal in Chattogram
Special Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 19 Apr 2025, 22: 53

Workers are seen handling a container at Chattogram sea port in 7 February 2022 Prothom Alo file photo

A support project with a budget of about Tk 150 billion will be undertaken for the preparations of the construction of Bay terminal in Chattogram.

The project tilted Bay Terminal Marin Infrastructure Development Project will be placed at the meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) on Sunday for approval.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will preside over the meeting at the NEC conference room of the Planning Commission in the capital.

According to the Planning Commission, the Chittagong Port Authority will implement the project in Anandabazar area of the port city’s South Halisahar from April 2025 to June 2031.

Breakwater and navigation channel facilities, as well as all necessary infrastructures and facilities will be constructed under the proposed project.

The World Bank will finance Tk 102.72 billion and the government will provide Tk 46.37 billion from the state exchequer.

Three Bay terminals will be built to facilitate the Chittagong port operation. Two of the terminals will be built under public private partnership (PPP) while the Chittagong Port Authority will construct the remaining one.

The government formulated the Strategic Master Plan for Chittagong Port in 2015, which includes the construction of Bay terminals. A feasibility study was carried out later. However, separate project was also undertaken to build the required infrastructures for the constructions of Bay terminals.​

 

[Saif]

Matarbari all set to sign deal for two jetties

The long-awaited journey towards Bangladesh’s first deep-sea port at Matarbari in Cox’s Bazar is finally approaching a major milestone.

www.thedailystar.net

Matarbari all set to sign deal for two jetties

The long-awaited journey towards Bangladesh's first deep-sea port at Matarbari in Cox's Bazar is finally approaching a major milestone.

The Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) is set to sign a contract on April 22 for the construction of two jetties—marking the beginning of the first phase of the Matarbari Port Development Project.

The agreement will be signed with a Japanese joint venture comprising Penta-Ocean Construction Co. Ltd. and TOA Corporation, at a ceremony scheduled to be held at a hotel in Dhaka, confirmed CPA Secretary Md Omar Faruk.

The contract, titled "Matarbari Port Development Project Phase-1 Package 1: Procurement of Civil Works for Port Construction," is valued at approximately Tk 6,200 crore and the deadline for completing phase-1 has been set for 2029.

Funded mostly by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the total cost of the port project is estimated at Tk 24,300 crore.

Phase-1 includes the construction of two jetties: a 460-metre-long container jetty and a 300-metre-long multi-purpose jetty.

It also covers yard reclamation, soil improvement, terminal facilities, and the construction of administrative and operational buildings, according to Commodore Kaosar Rashid, CPA member for harbour and marine and the project director.

Once operational, Matarbari Port will become the country's first deep-sea port, capable of handling container vessels with capacities of up to 8,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units).

In contrast, the Chattogram port currently accommodates vessels of up to 2,500 TEUs.

The vision for a deep-sea port at Matarbari emerged in 2018 when the government launched a coal-based power plant project in the area.

The need for a wider and deeper channel to transport fuel sparked the idea for a full-fledged seaport.

The state-owned Coal Power Generation Company Bangladesh (CPGCBL), which implemented the 1,200-megawatt power plant project, also constructed an artificial channel measuring 14.5 kilometres in length, 250 metres in width, and 18 metres in depth.

Recognising the strategic value of this deep-draft channel, the government decided to establish a commercial port on the same site.

JICA, which had also funded the power plant, endorsed the idea after its feasibility study revealed the seabed was deeper than previously expected.

To further facilitate the port's development, the channel was widened by 100 metres and deepened by an additional two metres.

The CPGCBL also constructed essential maritime infrastructure, including a 1,753-metre breakwater on the north side, a 713-metre breakwater on the south side, and a 1,802.85-metre revetment—all using stone blocks.

The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) originally approved the Matarbari Deep Seaport Development Project in 2020 with an estimated cost of Tk 17,777 crore and a Phase-1 completion target of 2026.

However, in October 2024, ECNEC revised the project, raising the budget to Tk 24,381 crore and pushing the deadline to 2029.

According to port officials, the 37 percent rise in project costs resulted from factors such as the depreciation of the taka, increased land acquisition expenses, and design modifications.​

 

[Bilal9]

Once operational, Matarbari Port will become the country's first deep-sea port, capable of handling container vessels with capacities of up to 8,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units).

In contrast, the Chattogram port currently accommodates vessels of up to 2,500 TEUs.

The ships with capacity of 8,000 TEUs are called Post-Panamax class container ships.

Here is the draft relationship per TEU capacity. Since Matarbari has 18 metre draft, it can easily accommodate much larger 14000 TEU container ships (New Panamax Class).

14000 TEU ships are also called ULCC (Ultra Large Container Carrier). Here is one from Yang Ming Lines,

​

If they can change the design of the ships (shallow draft design by Maersk and other shipping companies) - even Chittagong can definitely accommodate higher TEU container ships.

The Bay Terminal at Chittagong (when finished) can accommodate these 3000 or so TEU ships and so can Mongla. 3000 TEU ships are at the higher size end of the Singapore to Chittagong feeder class ship, most ships nowadays calling at Chittagong port are close to 1500~2000 TEU size.

So much for the BJP dream of "shutting down Bangladesh exports".

 

[Saif]

TK 135.25b Bay Terminal development project in Chattogram approved

The interim government has approved an infrastructure development project worth over Tk 135.25 billion for the Bay Terminal in Chattogram, reviving a long-stalled initiative in a region considered strategically vital both geographically and economically. The Executive Committee of the National Eco

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

TK 135.25b Bay Terminal development project in Chattogram approved
Published :
Apr 20, 2025 22:53
Updated :
Apr 20, 2025 22:53

The interim government has approved an infrastructure development project worth over Tk 135.25 billion for the Bay Terminal in Chattogram, reviving a long-stalled initiative in a region considered strategically vital both geographically and economically.

The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) gave the nod on Sunday at a meeting chaired by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at the NEC Conference Room in the Planning Commission complex.

The Bay Terminal Marine Infrastructure Development Project, stuck in bureaucratic limbo for nearly a decade, had seen no visible progress for four and a half months following the fall of the previous administration—even after securing the land needed for construction.

Of the total cost, the World Bank will provide Tk 93.33 billion, while the government will bear the remaining Tk 41.92 billion, reports bdnews24.com.

“This project has been under discussion for years without progress. Today we are finally moving forward with it. The project is the Bay Terminal in Chattogram,” Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud said after the meeting.

He said while Chattogram is commonly referred to as a seaport, it technically functions as a river port.

“Bangladesh has no real seaport,” he remarked.

“Considering the way our economy is growing, and the scale we expect it to reach over the next 15 to 20 years, this part of the Bay of Bengal is not only important for Bangladesh but also holds regional significance. A maritime port facility here is essential,” he added.

Although the current project has not been categorised as a “mega project”, Wahiduddin said it would eventually be part of a larger initiative involving four terminals—two of which will be developed under public-private partnerships (PPP).

“In total, this will become a mega project,” he said.

“For now, we’re approving a major component of it, but the complete package will be much bigger.”

The adviser said instructions had been issued to begin work without further delay.

Initial work will focus on building a breakwater to shield the port from high waves and storms, along with developing essential support infrastructure.

The breakwater construction and dredging activities will be financed with support from the World Bank.

Wahiduddin hopes that even if the two associated projects take 10 to 15 years to complete, they will be fully operational and capable of meeting the country’s growing trade needs.

“We cannot afford further delay. The Karnaphuli river port was never sufficient, and this has been evident for over 20 years. Large ships cannot even dock there,” he said.

The Bay Terminal Project was first proposed 10 years ago to support the country's future trade expansion and establish an international standard seaport.

Though feasibility studies were conducted three years later, the masterplan was only finalised in November 2023.

Spanning over 6.25 km from behind the Chattogram EPZ near Patenga Sea Beach to Rani Rashmoni Ghat, the terminal has already received most of its required land.

Despite approval of a World Bank loan for the breakwater, no visible progress had been made until now.

Chattogram port has previously faced vessel congestion and long waiting times.

Existing terminals could not accommodate ships with a draft exceeding 10 metres, the depth of the ship's submerged part.

To address these issues and facilitate docking of larger vessels, known as mother vessels, the port authority initiated the Bay Terminal project in 2014, focusing on the Patenga Beach area.

In 2017, a foreign company conducted technical, economic, and environmental studies for the project and developed a master plan, which was finalised and unveiled in November last year.

The plan includes constructing two container terminals measuring 1,225 metres each and a multipurpose terminal 1,500 metres long, for a total of three terminals.

It also proposes 11 jetties across 4.95 kilometres of terminal length, capable of accommodating vessels with 12-metre drafts and 300-metre lengths.

Under the PPP model, agreements have already been signed with two foreign firms for the construction of two terminals.

Although the project is envisioned to span over 352 hectares, the port authority has so far received nearly 230 hectares. These were allocated in May, 2024.

In June, the World Bank approved a $650 million loan for constructing the breakwater and dredging to protect the Bay Terminal from tidal currents.

Sunday’s ECNEC meeting approved 14 projects in total, with a combined estimated cost of Tk 242.47 billion.​

 

[Bilal9]

Ending all speculation, the construction of the Matarbari deep container seaport is now starting. The construction of a terminal consisting of two jetties (one for containers and the other for bulk cargo such as crude oil and cereals) at a cost of 6,200 crore taka will begin immediately after signing of the agreement with the JICA-designated Japanese contractor consortium in Dhaka on April 22 last. Construction is slated to end around 2029, when container handling will formally commence.

 

[Saif]

Matarbari Port to open new horizon for global trade: Adviser Sakhawat

The Matarbari Deep Sea Port will open up a new horizon for international trade and serve as a strategic investment for Bangladesh’s future, said Adviser to the Ministries of Shipping and Labour and Employment Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain on Tuesday. “This is not merely an infrast

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Matarbari Port to open new horizon for global trade: Adviser Sakhawat
FE Online Desk
Published :
Apr 22, 2025 21:34
Updated :
Apr 22, 2025 22:04

The Matarbari Deep Sea Port will open up a new horizon for international trade and serve as a strategic investment for Bangladesh’s future, said Adviser to the Ministries of Shipping and Labour and Employment Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain on Tuesday.

“This is not merely an infrastructure project—it is a cornerstone for the country’s long-term economic ambitions,” he said while addressing a contract signing ceremony in the capital for the development of the Matarbari Port under the Chattogram Port Authority (CPA), funded by JICA and CPA.

Once operational, the Matarbari Port will significantly boost the country’s cargo handling capacity by accommodating large vessels of up to 100,000 DWT, ease congestion at existing ports, enhance supply chain efficiency, and ensure direct access to the emerging industrial zones in Cox’s Bazar and Maheshkhali, he said.

Sakhawat also noted that the port is expected to help transform Bangladesh into a key energy and trans-shipment hub in the region, reports UNB.

Under Package 1 of the project, construction includes a 300-metre-long multi-purpose berth (for vessels up to 200m), a 460-metre container berth (for ships up to 350m), along with terminal buildings, pavements, retaining walls, sea walls, boundary walls, land development, dredging, land reclamation, emergency generators, solar power facilities, terminal utilities, and other ancillary civil and electrical works.

The terminal yard will feature around 5,100 ground slots for storing containers. With a 14.5-metre draft and the ability to berth container vessels of 300 metres in length and up to 8,200 TEUs, the port is projected to handle between 0.6 and 1.1 million TEUs annually by 2029, rising to an estimated 2.2 to 2.6 million TEUs by 2041.

Highlighting Japan’s support in the project, the adviser said, “The cooperation from the Government of Japan and JICA has been instrumental in turning the Matarbari vision into reality. Their technical expertise, financing, and capacity development contributions are deeply appreciated.”

The agreement was signed between Rear Admiral S M Moniruzzaman, chairman of Chattogram Port Authority, and Tomokazu Hasegawa, General Manager of Penta-Ocean Construction Co Ltd.​

 

[Bilal9]

Under Package 1 of the project, construction includes a 300-metre-long multi-purpose berth (for vessels up to 200m), a 460-metre container berth (for ships up to 350m), along with terminal buildings, pavements, retaining walls, sea walls, boundary walls, land development, dredging, land reclamation, emergency generators, solar power facilities, terminal utilities, and other ancillary civil and electrical works.

The 350-meter long container ship class refers to the A-class container ships, which are among the largest container ships in the world. These ships have a capacity of 8000 TEU. Here are some examples.

This ships are five times the size of container ships what CTG now handles.

However 8000 TEU is the very upper limit for the container handling berth at Matarbari. Which means it will commonly handle panamax and post-panamax size container ships (roughly 5000-6000 TEU ships) which will ply directly from Korean, Japanese and Chinese ports to Matarbari and also to EU ports from that port.

No transshipment (which commonly occurs now in S'pore and Colombo for import and export container traffic for Bangladesh) will be needed any longer.

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh gets $850 million in World Bank loans for Bay Terminal, social protection

Under the deal, the WB will provide $650 million to Bangladesh for the Bay Terminal Marine Infrastructure Development Project

www.thedailystar.net

Bangladesh gets $850 million in World Bank loans for Bay Terminal, social protection

Photo: Collected

Bangladesh has secured $850 million in financing from the World Bank to support the development of a major marine terminal in Chattogram and to expand the country's social protection programmes, the Economic Relations Division (ERD) said in a statement.

Two separate financing agreements were signed today (April 23) in Washington between the ERD and the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank's concessional arm.

Under the deal, the WB will provide $650 million to Bangladesh for the Bay Terminal Marine Infrastructure Development Project at Chattogram, the port city.

Another $200 million will go toward implementing a wide-ranging social protection project, according to a statement from the ERD.

Shahriar Kader Siddiky, secretary of the ERD, and Gayle H Martin, interim country director of the World Bank for Bangladesh, signed the agreements on behalf of their respective institutions.

The Bay Terminal project, overseen by the Chittagong Port Authority, is expected to significantly improve port efficiency by reducing vessel turnaround time and increasing capacity.

It includes the construction of breakwaters, capital dredging of the entrance channel and basin, and the installation of navigation systems.

The World Bank estimates the project could reduce daily economic losses by $1 million. Implementation is scheduled from April 2025 to June 2031.

The social protection project, to be implemented by the Department of Social Services and the Finance Division, will run from July 2025 to June 2030.

It aims to expand the national social safety net by developing a Dynamic Social Registry, strengthening cash transfer programs, and supporting livelihood opportunities for low-income populations.​

 

[Saif]

https://thefinancialexpress.com.bd/views/opinions/threat-to-padma-bridge-posed-by-river-erosion

Threat to Padma Bridge posed by river erosion
Neil Ray
Published :
Apr 27, 2025 23:17
Updated :
Apr 27, 2025 23:17

The embankment built to protect the Padma Bridge project area is under severe threat, according to a report carried in a contemporary. A two-kilometre segment of the embankment at Jajira point of Shariatpur has started experiencing river erosion. The river has become deeper closer to the Padma Bridge and at the same time the erosion is approaching the bridge. Given the treacherous nature of the river Padma, a hydro-meteorological disaster cannot be ruled out if measures are not taken immediately to protect the river-line embankment at that point. The problem of this river is particularly treacherous because of the fast shifting soil of its bed. This is exactly happening to one-kilometre segment of the embankment and the rest one kilometre length is actually experiencing erosion.

This is not the first time that alarm bell has been sounded. Months before another report came up with the danger posed to the embankment and the bridge. But the authorities failed to respond to the call the way it should have done. Following the landslide of 100 metre of the embankment at Naodoba zero point in November last year, the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) and the Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA) jointly carried out a study. The study found that the depth of the river along one-kilometre stretch is greater than in the surrounding areas. What was of particular concern is that the soil of the river bed continued to move away from that segment. The river moved closer to the other segment of one-kilometre length. Erosion happened there too.

The BWDB has undertaken repair works of the 100-metre embankment that gave in last year in November. The repair consists of putting in place sand-laden geo-textile (geo) bags and cement concrete (CC) blocks at a cost of Tk27 million. Isn't it too little too late? Tortuous and treacherous, the Padma cannot be restrained by such patch works. Even in the lean season, it can break through the defence of strong embankment. The least said about its power in the monsoon the better.

An extensive and comprehensive study was well in order to see if there was any error or defect when the river training was done. The bridge authority constructed an embankment two kilometres to the east in order to protect the project area of the Padma Bridge. After the river training, the bank-line embankment reportedly was aligned to the one constructed earlier.

This is somewhat confusing. Without river training, the feasibility of a bridge is questionable. When a bridge of the order on a mighty river like the Padma is concerned, not just river training but river engineering should be conducted meticulously beforehand to determine the vulnerability or not of the structure to river erosion or shifting of the channel.

Any attempt to prevent erosion of the river by piling geo bags and cc blocks is most likely to prove a child's play. It is better to act on the basis of findings of river training and even river engineering. If needed, experts in hydro-meteorology from abroad can be hired to find out how grave the situation is and how it can be arrested sustainably. After all, this bridge has to be protected at any cost.

Early detection of any defect in the embankment will give better chance for obviating the threat effectively. There is also the need for analysing the anthropogenic impacts on the river. Sand extraction within the vicinity of the bridge was also reported a few times in the past. The bridge authority and the BWDB did not swing into action against the culprits to let such drives to act as a deterrent to the illegal and destructive practice. Before the worst happens, necessary remedial measures must be devised to save the bridge and the locality under threat.​

 

[Saif]

Ports must be made world-class to make country investment hub, says chief adviser

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday directed the persons concerned to quickly settle discussions with potential foreign investors to increase the capacity of Chattogram port with world-class services in an effort to make the country an investment hub. "We’ll have to involve s

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Ports must be made world-class to make country investment hub, says chief adviser
UNB
Published :
Apr 30, 2025 20:25
Updated :
Apr 30, 2025 20:25

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday directed the persons concerned to quickly settle discussions with potential foreign investors to increase the capacity of Chattogram port with world-class services in an effort to make the country an investment hub.

"We’ll have to involve such operators in port management so that our ports can gain the ability to compete in the international market. We must make our ports world-class to implement the investment hub that we are talking about,” he said.

The chief adviser made the directives at a high-level meeting with officials of the Ministry of Shipping, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), Bangladesh Economic Zone Authority (BEZA), Chittagong Port Authority, and other relevant departments at the State Guest House Jamuna.

The chief adviser urged all the concerned departments to complete the work by August through proper coordination.

BIDA and BEZA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun informed the meeting that the current handling capacity of Bangladesh's seaports is 1.37 million units per year, which can be increased to 7.86 million units in the next five years through proper planning and action.

He said that the currently operational New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) of Chattogram Port is capable of handling 1.27 million units per year and Mongla Port is capable of handling 0.1 million units. Their capacities can be increased to 1.5 million and 0.63 million respectively.

Ashik said once the construction of Patenga Container Terminal, Laldia Container Terminal, Bay Terminal and Matarbari Deep Sea Port is completed, Bangladesh will have a handling capacity of more than five million units.

He informed the Chief Adviser about the overall progress in the speedy completion of the Laldia Port work for foreign investment.

Shipping Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr M. Sakhawat Hossain, Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy on International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, Senior Secretary to the Ministry of Shipping Mohammad Yusuf, Secretary to the Chief Adviser's Office Md. Mahmudul Hossain Khan, Chief Executive Officer of the Public Private Partnership Authority (PPPA) Muhammad Rafiqul Islam and Chairman of the Chittagong Port Authority Rear Admiral S. M. Moniruzzaman, among others, were present.​

 

[Saif]

Govt plans to hire foreign firms to operate Ctg Port

The government is considering appointing some of the world’s most experienced port operators to manage Chattogram Port and other sea and land ports in the region, said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam yesterday.

www.thedailystar.net

Govt plans to hire foreign firms to operate Ctg Port
Says CA’s press secretary

Chittagong Port. File photo: Star

The government is considering appointing some of the world's most experienced port operators to manage Chattogram Port and other sea and land ports in the region, said Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam yesterday.

He expressed hope that the recruitment process would be completed by September this year.

Speaking at a press conference at the Chattogram Circuit House in the afternoon, Shafiqul addressed concerns regarding the rationale behind bringing in foreign operators instead of employing domestic ones.

"Chattogram Port is currently unable to handle cargo in line with the demands of today's global investors. Local operators, including Saif Powertec, are facing capacity limitations, which is a key reason behind the persistent container congestion at the port."

Shafiqul emphasised that the future trajectory of Bangladesh's economy hinges on the efficiency and capacity of Chattogram Port. "We have no alternative but to expand the capacity of the port, along with Patenga Terminal, Bay Terminal, and Matarbari Port.

"Chattogram and its surrounding areas are ideal for port-based development. We are in discussions with companies that have experience managing 50 to 100 ports globally."

Outlining the government's long-term vision, Shafiqul said the combined container handling capacity of ports in and around Chattogram currently stands at 1.27 million TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit). The government aims to raise this to 7.86 million TEUs by 2030.

One TEU is based on the volume of a standard 20-foot long intermodal container.

"To transform Bangladesh into an economic hub, port capacity must be expanded," he said, noting that a comprehensive strategy is being developed, which includes the improvement of the Dhaka-Chattogram highway and related infrastructure.

He assured that only top-tier companies with unblemished reputations will be selected, and the process will be fully transparent. "The agreements may be executed through open tenders or under a government-to-government (G2G) arrangement."

In response to a question about the establishment of a "humanitarian corridor" with Myanmar, the press secretary said, "I've already spoken on this matter clearly. We would consider a humanitarian corridor only if the United Nations takes the initiative.

"The entire matter would require discussions with both countries -- Myanmar and Bangladesh. The idea of a humanitarian corridor has come up because there is ongoing civil war in that region. I think it's premature. In our view, it's still a long way off."​

 

[Saif]

Yunus for foreign collaboration to boost Ctg port

Bangladesh interim government chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday underscored the need for engaging foreign expertise and cooperation to enhance the efficiency and capacity of the Chattogram Port, widely considered the economic lifeline of the nation...

www.newagebd.net

Yunus for foreign collaboration to boost Ctg port
Staff Correspondent . Chattogram 14 May, 2025, 12:35

Chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus visits the Chattogram Port on Wednesday. | BSS photo

Bangladesh interim government chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday underscored the need for engaging foreign expertise and cooperation to enhance the efficiency and capacity of the Chattogram Port, widely considered the economic lifeline of the nation.

During his visit to the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT-5) at the port in the morning on the day, Yunus said, ‘Bangladesh cannot unlock new economic frontiers without strengthening the Chattogram Port. To elevate its performance to international standards, we must welcome foreign expertise and cooperation.’

It is his first official visit to Chattogram after taking office as the interim government chief adviser on August 8, 2024, following the ouster of authoritarian Awami League regime amid a mass uprising.

He said, ‘In the past, I had only written about this port. Today, I have the opportunity to see it first-hand and initiate concrete steps. Our goal is to transform this into a truly global-standard port.’

Following a multimedia presentation at the port, the chief adviser alongside shipping adviser retired Brigadier General M Shakhawat Hossain and Chattogram Port Authority chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman addressed officials and stakeholders.

Later at the Circuit House, Yunus inaugurated the long-awaited construction work of the Kalurghat rail-cum-road bridge over the River Karnaphuli.

‘This bridge holds countless memories for me. Its historical significance is immense, and fulfilling the people’s long-standing dream of a new Kalurghat Bridge will alleviate sufferings,’ he said.

Road transport and bridges adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan said that the current Kalurghat Bridge, built in 1931, had surpassed its usable life by 2011. The new bridge is expected to be completed by 2029 and become operational in 2030.

In a separate programme held at the Circuit House auditorium, Yunus handed over land deeds for a 23-decimal plot to the Chattogram Heart Foundation to facilitate the construction of a new hospital in the port city’s South Kattoli area. The deed was received by the Foundation’s chairman Mohammad Abdus Salam, also managing director of the Asian Group.

Health adviser Nurjahan Begum, who was also present at the event, announced plans for two more government hospitals — one at Hathazari upazila and another at Karnaphuli upazila. The health adviser also disclosed a proposal to build a dental college and hospital in Kalurghat area in the city.

Addressing the city’s long-standing waterlogging crisis, Yunus gave firm instructions during a views-exchange meeting on ‘Waterlogging mitigation and development of the Oxygen-Hathazari Highway’, held at the Circuit House at noon.

‘This year’s monsoon has already begun. While it’s unrealistic to expect a complete resolution of waterlogging this season, coordinated efforts by local government’s entities such as the city corporation and others must show visible results.

Solving Chattogram’s waterlogging crisis will serve as a model for other cities. We must not rely solely on theoretical discussions — we want real change,’ the chief adviser said.

He said, ‘Chattogram has the capacity that many cities do not. All institutions and communities must actively prove this capability through coordinated action.’

Later in the afternoon, Yunus attended the fifth convocation ceremony of the University of Chittagong, held at the university’s central playground.

Following the convocation, the chief adviser visited his ancestral home at Bathua village under Shikarpur union of Hathazari upazila, where he exchanged greetings with local residents and relatives.​

 

[Saif]

Container congestion at Chattogram port due to pen-down strike

A recent pen-down strike by customs officials across Bangladesh has severely disrupted operations at the country’s largest seaport, Chattogram, resulting in a massive build-up of containers both at the port and off-dock facilities. For several days, officials at all customs houses, including

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Container congestion at Chattogram port due to pen-down strike
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
May 19, 2025 23:19
Updated :
May 19, 2025 23:19

A recent pen-down strike by customs officials across Bangladesh has severely disrupted operations at the country’s largest seaport, Chattogram, resulting in a massive build-up of containers both at the port and off-dock facilities.

For several days, officials at all customs houses, including Chattogram Customs House, observed a pen-down programme, beginning their duties only after 3 PM. Though the strike was officially suspended on Monday (May 19), its impact continues to strain port operations.

As of now, over 44,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) of containers remain stuck inside the Chattogram Port. Additionally, 19 off-docks are reportedly holding around 86,000 TEUs, exacerbating the logistical bottleneck, according to local media.

According to port sources, the internal yard of the port has seen an increase of more than 8,000 containers in just 19 days—an alarming rise directly linked to the slowed customs clearance during the strike.

Industry stakeholders warn that prolonged delays in container movement could disrupt supply chains, increase operational costs for businesses, and ultimately affect the country’s trade competitiveness.

Authorities are now racing to clear the backlog and restore normal operations, though the effects of the disruption may take days to fully resolve.​

 

[Saif]

Debates over leasing NCT to foreign operator intensifying

The debate over whether to lease out the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) at Chittagong Port to a foreign operator is intensifying, with political parties, including the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and left-leaning groups, uniting in opposition.

www.thedailystar.net

Debates over leasing NCT to foreign operator intensifying

The debate over whether to lease out the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) at Chittagong Port to a foreign operator is intensifying, with political parties, including the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and left-leaning groups, uniting in opposition.

The move, initially introduced under the previous Awami League government through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Authority, has gained traction under the current interim government.

While some political and labour groups are vocal in their opposition, authorities say that a feasibility study is ongoing, with the final decision to be based on its findings.

However, Shipping Adviser Brig Gen (Retd) M Sakhawat Hussain indicated that the administration is in favour of bringing in a foreign operator to manage the terminal.

Opposition parties argue that the NCT is already well-equipped and capable of delivering world-class services without external involvement. They claim there is no scope for expansion, making foreign investment "unnecessary" and appointing a foreign operator "irrational".

Completed in 2007 at a cost of Tk 469 crore, the 950-metre-long NCT has five jetties -- four for ocean-going vessels and one for smaller ships on inland routes.

'What's the point of leasing out a functional terminal?'

Humayun Kabir, former publicity secretary of BNP's labour wing Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal (Port unit), said that the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) invested Tk 2,000 crore to fully equip the terminal.

Now, he argued, there is little left to invest in.

Since 2007, local firm Saif Powertec Ltd had been running two of the jetties of the NCT on an ad hoc basis. In 2015, the CPA formally appointed Saif Powertec as the operator for four jetties.

Kabir criticised the appointment as being "politically motivated" and argued that if a new operator is to be selected, it should be done transparently through an open tender.

"Leasing out NCT to a foreign operator would drain revenue from a fully operational terminal," he claimed.

According to the CPA, the NCT generated Tk 1,216 crore in revenue in FY23, with net income after expenses amounting to Tk 574 crore. In the same period, Saif Powertec received Tk 79.13 crore as handling charges.

Jamaat-e-Islami city unit Ameer Shahjahan Chowdhury echoed Kabir's concerns.

He said, "We are not against foreign investment. But bring foreign investment for greenfield projects, for new ports and terminals; not for an already established terminal."

For the construction and operation of the proposed Bay Terminal and Laldia Container Terminal, the previous Awami League government started talks with global operators including PSA Singapore, DP World, AP Moller Maersk and Abu Dhabi Port.

In 2023, the previous government leased out the newly built Patenga Container Terminal (PCT) to Saudi firm Red Sea Gateway Terminal (RSGT) International for 22 years.

However, all those moves involving foreign companies did not face that much opposition.

Push for foreign investment

During a recent visit to the Chittagong Port, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida) Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun stressed the need for global operators to manage port facilities, citing efficiency and optimal utilisation as key to transforming Bangladesh into a global manufacturing hub.

"With limited land, we must ensure that every port facility operates as one of the world's best," he said. "Otherwise, we won't achieve our ambitions."

CPA Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman also supported the move, saying that a global operator could introduce advanced technology and increase efficiency through competition.

"Appointing a foreign operator could maximise financial returns while modernising port operations," he said.

Political pressure foiled initial foreign operator plan

After the NCT's construction was completed in 2007, the CPA floated an international tender to appoint a foreign operator.

However, then shipping minister Shahjahan Khan and Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Shipping Nur-e-Alam Chowdhury intervened, leading to the tender's cancellation.

The CPA then opted to equip the terminal using its own funds and appointed a local operator.

The terminal remained underutilised for eight years after construction. By 2022, it had its key equipment installed.

In 2022, talks to appoint a foreign operator at the NCT started. Salman F Rahman, the then private industry and investment adviser to the prime minister, was in favour of leasing out NCT to DP World.

In March 2023, the then Awami League government approved the appointment of an international private operator for operation and maintenance of NCT under Public Private Partnership.​

 

[Saif]

UAE group getting MoU on Bay terminal investment extended

The government is extending the tenure of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) under which the Abu Dhabi Ports Group wants to invest in the potential port sector of Bangladesh, while an impasse keeps other scrambling foreign investors at bay. An impasse over appointment of a foreign operator

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Foreign firms bet billions on bay port ventures
UAE group getting MoU on Bay terminal investment extended

Syful Islam
Published :
May 23, 2025 00:28
Updated :
May 23, 2025 00:28

The government is extending the tenure of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) under which the Abu Dhabi Ports Group wants to invest in the potential port sector of Bangladesh, while an impasse keeps other scrambling foreign investors at bay.

An impasse over appointment of a foreign operator for New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) has been persisting for some time now amid contentions.

The AD Ports Group had signed the non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) one year back and its tenure expired last week, officials said.

Under the MoU, AD Ports Group had planned to invest $1.0 billion in construction of a multipurpose terminal under the Bay Terminal project near the Chittagong seaport, dubbed Bangladesh's commercial lifeline.

Also, PSA Singapore and DP World of the United Arab Emirates have put on stake $1.5 billion each to develop two container terminals under the Bay Terminal project.

The World Bank this past April signed a deal with the government to provide $650 million for construction of a 6-kilometre breakwater and access channels linking the Bay Terminal on the Bay of Bengal.

Moreover, local conglomerate East Coast Group and its foreign partners bet $3.5 billion on building a liquid bulk terminal in the Bay Terminal project.

Saif Powertech, the lone operator of the New Mooring Container Terminal since its inception, the biggest box terminal of Chittagong port, is local partner of AD Ports Group in Bangladesh.

Members of various political parties and labour organisations have stood out against the government move to appointment of a foreign operator, DP World, to operate the NCT.

According to Shipping Ministry officials, the high-ups of AD Ports Group met shipping adviser M Sakhawat Hussain on Tuesday morning to discuss an extension of the MoU and progress in Bay Terminal project implementation.

Sources say at the meeting the shipping adviser agreed that the tenure of the accord will be extended.

Contacted, Mr Hussain told the FE that the CPA chairman is now staying abroad and that "steps will be taken on the MoU after his return".

However, shipping secretary Mohammed Yousuf said following the expiry of tenure of the memorandum, AD Ports Group officials met the adviser and sought extension of the deal.

"Since this is not a legal document, we informed them that we will extend the MoU," he told the FE writer.

The Public-Private Partnership Authority (PPPA) had appointed UK-based Ernst & Young LLP transaction adviser in 2022 for the terminal. However, the company has yet to submit any report to the authorities, sources said. The tenure of this contract has also lapsed.

The Bay Terminal will enhance Chittagong Port's annual handling capacity to 5.0 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) from the current handling of around 3.2 million TEUs.

The Bay Terminal will have at least 12-metre water draft allowing 300-metre-long ships with 5,000-TEU-container-carrying capacity to take berth in the jetties any time at day and night.

The terminal will be built on 2,500 acres of land near the Bay of Bengal, now under global spotlight, according to officials concerned.​

 

[Bilal9]

Debates over leasing NCT to foreign operator intensifying

The debate over whether to lease out the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) at Chittagong Port to a foreign operator is intensifying, with political parties, including the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and left-leaning groups, uniting in opposition.

www.thedailystar.net

Debates over leasing NCT to foreign operator intensifying

View attachment 17568

The debate over whether to lease out the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) at Chittagong Port to a foreign operator is intensifying, with political parties, including the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and left-leaning groups, uniting in opposition.

The move, initially introduced under the previous Awami League government through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Authority, has gained traction under the current interim government.

While some political and labour groups are vocal in their opposition, authorities say that a feasibility study is ongoing, with the final decision to be based on its findings.

However, Shipping Adviser Brig Gen (Retd) M Sakhawat Hussain indicated that the administration is in favour of bringing in a foreign operator to manage the terminal.

Opposition parties argue that the NCT is already well-equipped and capable of delivering world-class services without external involvement. They claim there is no scope for expansion, making foreign investment "unnecessary" and appointing a foreign operator "irrational".

Completed in 2007 at a cost of Tk 469 crore, the 950-metre-long NCT has five jetties -- four for ocean-going vessels and one for smaller ships on inland routes.

'What's the point of leasing out a functional terminal?'

Humayun Kabir, former publicity secretary of BNP's labour wing Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal (Port unit), said that the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) invested Tk 2,000 crore to fully equip the terminal.

Now, he argued, there is little left to invest in.

Since 2007, local firm Saif Powertec Ltd had been running two of the jetties of the NCT on an ad hoc basis. In 2015, the CPA formally appointed Saif Powertec as the operator for four jetties.

Kabir criticised the appointment as being "politically motivated" and argued that if a new operator is to be selected, it should be done transparently through an open tender.

"Leasing out NCT to a foreign operator would drain revenue from a fully operational terminal," he claimed.

According to the CPA, the NCT generated Tk 1,216 crore in revenue in FY23, with net income after expenses amounting to Tk 574 crore. In the same period, Saif Powertec received Tk 79.13 crore as handling charges.

Jamaat-e-Islami city unit Ameer Shahjahan Chowdhury echoed Kabir's concerns.

He said, "We are not against foreign investment. But bring foreign investment for greenfield projects, for new ports and terminals; not for an already established terminal."

For the construction and operation of the proposed Bay Terminal and Laldia Container Terminal, the previous Awami League government started talks with global operators including PSA Singapore, DP World, AP Moller Maersk and Abu Dhabi Port.

In 2023, the previous government leased out the newly built Patenga Container Terminal (PCT) to Saudi firm Red Sea Gateway Terminal (RSGT) International for 22 years.

However, all those moves involving foreign companies did not face that much opposition.

Push for foreign investment

During a recent visit to the Chittagong Port, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida) Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun stressed the need for global operators to manage port facilities, citing efficiency and optimal utilisation as key to transforming Bangladesh into a global manufacturing hub.

"With limited land, we must ensure that every port facility operates as one of the world's best," he said. "Otherwise, we won't achieve our ambitions."

CPA Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman also supported the move, saying that a global operator could introduce advanced technology and increase efficiency through competition.

"Appointing a foreign operator could maximise financial returns while modernising port operations," he said.

Political pressure foiled initial foreign operator plan

After the NCT's construction was completed in 2007, the CPA floated an international tender to appoint a foreign operator.

However, then shipping minister Shahjahan Khan and Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Shipping Nur-e-Alam Chowdhury intervened, leading to the tender's cancellation.

The CPA then opted to equip the terminal using its own funds and appointed a local operator.

The terminal remained underutilised for eight years after construction. By 2022, it had its key equipment installed.

In 2022, talks to appoint a foreign operator at the NCT started. Salman F Rahman, the then private industry and investment adviser to the prime minister, was in favour of leasing out NCT to DP World.

In March 2023, the then Awami League government approved the appointment of an international private operator for operation and maintenance of NCT under Public Private Partnership.​

I am sure the Indians are instigating the political parties in opposing appointment of foreign operators for NCT. They hugely benefit in any chaos in Bangladesh.

The political parties are unhappy because they supposedly aren't getting a cut of the foreign contract "proceeds". Which though - can be handled without much fuss.

Plus there is also massive opportunities for graft at the port, the local port operators at various levels and corrupt customs officials are the culprits, arresting some of these scumbags will set the right tone in warning them. But increasing chaos at this time may not be the best idea. Too many moving parts right now.

Bangladesh has well-established deep-rooted institutional corruption - defeating the symptoms and actors (both public and private) in one go will be tough, we have to have a concerted long-term plan. The actors have too many targeted mechanisms in keeping up graft and corruption.

 

[Saif]

I am sure the Indians are instigating the political parties in opposing appointment of foreign operators for NCT. They hugely benefit in any chaos in Bangladesh.

The political parties are unhappy because they supposedly aren't getting a cut of the foreign contract "proceeds". Which though - can be handled without much fuss.

Plus there is also massive opportunities for graft at the port, the local port operators at various levels and corrupt customs officials are the culprits, arresting some of these scumbags will set the right tone in warning them. But increasing chaos at this time may not be the best idea. Too many moving parts right now.

Bangladesh has well-established deep-rooted institutional corruption - defeating the symptoms and actors (both public and private) in one go will be tough, we have to have a concerted long-term plan. The actors have too many targeted mechanisms in keeping up graft and corruption.

Your analysis of the current situation which has been created by our political parties to stop Dr. Yunus from inviting foreign companies to operate our sea ports is correct. I blame BNP for spreading lies. Foreign companies will bring new technology and management skill required to run our ports efficiently. Local operators are corrupt and inefficient. They must not be allowed to run our ports until they reform themselves to achieve international standards in port operations.

 

[Bilal9]

Your analysis of the current situation which has been created by our political parties to stop Dr. Yunus from inviting foreign companies to operate our sea ports is correct. I blame BNP for spreading lies. Foreign companies will bring new technology and management skill required to run our ports efficiently. Local operators are corrupt and inefficient. They must not be allowed to run our ports until they reform themselves to achieve international standards in port operations.

My words exactly. Local corrupt politicians and port operators are progress and efficiency-opposing luddites.

They can see that our ports are seriously overburdened due to late implementation of new jetties but they will block things because of narrow self interest.

Their halwa-ruti is in question, so they are worried.

"Danda" is needed, but maybe not now.

 

[Saif]

CAAB hopes to complete negotiation with Japanese consortium by June

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) is expecting to complete the negotiation with the Japanese consortium that will take the charge of operation and maintenance work of the newly-built third terminal of the country's prime international airport by June this year. CAAB Chairma

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

HSIA 3rd terminal
CAAB hopes to complete negotiation with Japanese consortium by June

GULAM RABBANI
Published :
May 24, 2025 00:59
Updated :
May 24, 2025 00:59

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) is expecting to complete the negotiation with the Japanese consortium that will take the charge of operation and maintenance work of the newly-built third terminal of the country's prime international airport by June this year.

CAAB Chairman Air Vice-Marshal Md Monjur Kabir Bhuiyan told this correspondent that they are currently in negotiation with the consortium and hope to complete the formalities by June this year.

The consortium is seeking six to eight months to complete the formalities after finalising the agreement, while the CAAB is demanding that the consortium finish the tasks within five to six months, he said.

A Japanese consortium comprising four companies is likely to get operation and maintenance work of the third terminal for 15 years as the preliminary bid discussion went on successfully.

After the negotiation is completed, the consortium will need to recruit personnel, conduct training, and provide equipment and instruction to them. Finally they will have to check the equipment by running them.

All these formalities will take some time. The CAAB chairman said they are trying their best to open the 3rd terminal of the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) by the end of this year.

He said the authorities are overseeing all aspects of the project, from airport development to operations, maintenance, licensing of airlines and aircraft, and pilot certifications.

The third terminal's construction is almost complete. Only some work remains in the VVIP section, which may take until June or July due to complexities in the contracts and delay in importing materials like granite flooring and ceiling components from abroad.

He noted that daily inspections at the third terminal are underway and the CAAB has a target to begin operation as soon as possible because this terminal has been built with loaned funds, which must be repaid.

"So, we are prioritising early operation," said the chairman, adding, "Each machine in the third terminal is now being checked one by one.

Our aim is to complete everything within this year and open it for passengers."

The consortium of four Japanese firms will oversee the terminal's operation and maintenance.

National flag carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines will continue to provide ground handling of the terminal under the supervision of the consortium.

Before that, a service level agreement (SLA) will be signed between Biman and the consortium.

Biman has been offering ground services since the country's independence, but its performance has faced criticism from other airlines over the years.

Responding to a question on Biman's continued involvement and concern over service quality, the CAAB chairman said, "As per current instructions, Biman will handle ground services for the next two years."

As is the case around the world, immigration police and customs will take care of security at the third terminal, said the official.​