PM Tarique Rahman orders fast-track modernization of Mongla Port

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has instructed authorities to expedite the capacity expansion and modernization works of Mongla Port, the economic lifeline of the southwestern region. During an extensive visit on Thursday, he inspected the port jetty, cargo unloading systems, and the proposed special economic zone. He reviewed progress firsthand and engaged with operational teams to outline plans for elevating Mongla into a major maritime trade hub.

Later, the Prime Minister attended a high-level review meeting at the Mongla Port Authority administrative building with port officials, business leaders, and maritime experts. Discussions focused on major development projects, ongoing international channel dredging, container handling capacity, and the planned LNG terminal. He emphasized removing infrastructure bottlenecks to facilitate smooth regional connectivity and draw private investments into the economic zone.

Local business chambers and residents welcomed the directives, noting that Mongla Port holds transformative potential when leveraged alongside the Padma Bridge and the Khulna-Mongla rail link. Leaders of the Bagerhat Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed optimism that rapid modernization and new industrial facilities will trigger heavy domestic and foreign investments, turning the coastline into an active industrial belt.

A tight multi-tier security cordon was enforced throughout the visit across Mongla, adjacent Sundarbans routes, and the Khulna-Bagerhat border area by the Navy, Coast Guard, Police, and RAB. The Prime Minister traveled through coastal waterways and surveyed the region before returning to Dhaka later in the afternoon.