Bangladesh - মংলা বন্দর
Mongla Port, the second busiest among Bangladesh’s three seaports, stands as an eco-friendly maritime hub situated in the southwestern part of the country. Positioned at the confluence of the Possur River and Mongla Nulla, approximately 71 nautical miles upstream of the Bay of Bengal, it serves as a crucial gateway for international shipping activities. Governed by the Ministry of Shipping, Government of Bangladesh, Mongla Port boasts unique geographical features and plays a pivotal role in facilitating trade connectivity.
Nestled at Lat 22.48867 Long 89.59283, Mongla Port enjoys a strategic location surrounded by the largest mangrove forest, Sundarbans, designated as a “World Heritage” site by UNESCO in 1977. Established in 1950 as Chalna Port, it transitioned into an autonomous entity named Chalna Port Authority in May 1977 and further evolved into Mongla Port Authority on March 8, 1987.
Transportation Infrastructure and Connectivity at Port of Mongla
Efforts are underway to enhance connectivity with the construction of the Mongla-Khulna Railway, linking the port through railway tracks already prepared within the port area. The railway project aims to optimize transport efficiency, facilitating seamless movement of goods and supporting the port’s operational needs.
Mongla Port handles a diverse range of cargo, including breakbulk, project cargo, vehicles, clinker, fertilizer, grain, coal, salt, LPG, edible oils, and containers. Providing essential facilities and services to international shipping lines, Mongla Port contributes significantly to the economic landscape. However, there exists a notable discrepancy in trade distribution, with Chattogram currently commanding 92% of the country’s international trade, deviating from the theoretical 60-40% ratio.
Port Facilities and Infrastructural Advantages
The port is surrounded and protected by the Sundarbans mangrove forest, offering a congestion-free environment for ships and cargo. With river and road transport available at a comparatively lower cost, Mongla Port ensures efficient anchorage and loading/unloading facilities for up to 33 ships simultaneously. The construction of Khanjahan Ali and Lalonshah bridges has bolstered transport connections from Mongla Port to the hinterlands of North Bengal, fostering a conducive environment for trade.
Strategic Development Initiatives
The modernization of Mongla Port has gained prominence with China’s commitment to invest in its expansion and modernization. Marking a significant shift from the historical reliance on Chattogram Port alone, this development aligns with Bangladesh’s strategic growth aspirations. The Chinese investment, amounting to USD 400 million, underscores the geopolitical dynamics at play in the Bay of Bengal region. This initiative, part of the collaboration agreed upon during President Xi Jinping’s visit in 2016, seeks to enhance Mongla Port’s capacity, making it a key player in regional maritime trade.
In conclusion, Mongla Port, with its eco-friendly setting and strategic positioning, holds the promise of evolving into a modernized and diversified maritime gateway, fostering economic growth for Bangladesh and contributing to the evolving geopolitical landscape in the region.
Additional Details for Port of Mongla
- Cargo throughput: Container TEUS 59,476 (2019-20), Cargo 512,293 tonnes (2019-20)
- Draft / maximum vessel size: Maximum LOA of vessels: 225 meters, Draft: 6.0m. to 9.5m
- Container cranes: Mobile cranes 7, dock side crane 5