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BSS-44
MPA-DREDGING-SHIP (with picture)
Ship movement begins through new channel in Mongla
KHULNA, Nov 18, 2020 (BSS) – The vessel movement first ever in a new channel at Mongla Port began yesterday following 85 per cent completion of dredging works in the last 68 years history of the country’s second largest sea port Mongla.
Four goods laden foreign ships plied through the channel yesterday, said an official of Mongla Port Authority (MPA).
Talking to BSS, Deputy Secretary of MPA Mofakharul Islam said, government has taken decision for creating a new channel at outer anchorage of the Mongla Port through dredging that aimed at increasing navigability of the Port.
The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) in 2018 has approved a project titled ‘Dredging at Mongla Port Outer Bar Channel’ at a cost of TK 712.50 crore.
MPA signed an agreement with China Civil Engineering Construction Company for dredging 20 kilometres area after completion of tender processing on December 13, 2018.
The dredging area stretches from Hiron Point of Sundarban to south Bay of Bengal , he said.
Over 8.5 meter draft has been created at Hiron Point area while 10.5 meter draft at Harbaria area after completing 85 per cent dredging works at the channel, he further added that full dredging works will be completed by December.
Harbour Master Commander of MPA Md Fakar Uddin said, movement of vessels has become easier and time saving as the new created channel is straight and having deep draft.
Talking to BSS, Chairman of Mongla Port Rear Admiral of Bangladesh Navy (BN) M Shajahan said, ship movement and revenue collection will be enhanced through this channel.
“Mongla Port is developing day by day as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is very much sincere and cordial to turn the second largest sea port into a centre for export import activities in south-west region, he added.
BSS/ZH/SKB/ 9145 hrs