THE inauguration of the Padma Bridge raised hopes for a revival of Mongla Port’s importance as a crucial trade hub in Bangladesh.
It was anticipated that with reduced travel distances and improved connectivity, businesses would shift towards utilizing Mongla Port for import and export activities. However, the current scenario tells a different story.
Despite efforts by the Mongla Port Authority (MPA), such as dredging initiatives to accommodate increased traffic, the port still lags behind its counterparts.
While there has been a slight increase in imports and exports, businesses still prefer Chattogram Port due to its deeper draft and superior infrastructure.
Statistics paint a grim picture. Container handling at Mongla Port declined by 18 per cent in the last fiscal year, hitting its lowest point in five years.
Ship arrivals have also decreased, reflecting traders’ reluctance to choose Mongla Port as their trade gateway.
The primary challenge facing Mongla Port is its shallow draft, which limits the size and type of vessels it can accommodate.
Despite efforts to deepen the channel, the port remains commercially unattractive to many importers and exporters, rendering its state-of-the-art facilities underutilized.
While acknowledging certain advantages such as lower rent and proximity to the capital for specific trade activities like car imports, business leaders emphasize the overall inferiority of Mongla Port compared to Chattogram.
Development efforts by the MPA are commendable, but they must address the core issue of draft limitations to effect meaningful change.
Stakeholders, including the government, port authorities, and business communities, must collaborate on infrastructure upgrades, particularly dredging projects to increase the port’s draft capacity.
Comprehensive marketing strategies are also necessary to promote Mongla Port as a viable alternative and dispel misconceptions among traders.
The potential benefits of a thriving Mongla Port are significant for local businesses and the broader economy. Enhanced trade through Mongla Port would reduce dependence on Chattogram, alleviate congestion, and foster balanced regional development. Increased government revenue from port operations would contribute to national prosperity.
As we look to the future, seizing the opportunity presented by the Padma Bridge is crucial to transforming Mongla Port into a beacon of trade and commerce.
Action is needed now to unlock the full potential of Mongla Port and propel Bangladesh towards greater economic prosperity.