Sohel Mahmud, Chattogram: Work has started on a 16-and-a-half meter deep port development project at Matarbari in Maheshkhali upazila of Cox’s Bazar. The port is being constructed in Matarbari and Dhalghat areas of Maheshkhali with the funding of Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA). The project agreement was signed last (September 23) with Nippon Koe of Japan and Oriental Consultant Global Company Limited with the Chittagong Port Authority. Rear Admiral SM Abul Kalam Azad, Chairman of the Chittagong Port Authority, said the project has started operations from today.

He said, The construction of Matarbari deep seaport was demanded at the time. As a result of this port, the economic belt that is being formed from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar will be accelerated. In keeping with the role model set by the Prime Minister, a deep seaport is being set up at Matarbari. The activities of this project will be completed by 2027. He was speaking at a briefing after the first meeting with Nippon Koei, a Japanese consultant for the Matarbari Port Development Project, at Bandar Bhaban on Monday (November 18) afternoon. At the port member said. Zafar Alam said, Work on the terminal could begin in mid-2025. The 72-year-old consultant is also working in Corona, which is a positive aspect.

He said, Ships can come with 8-10 thousand containers.The demand for our large container transport is increasing. Initially it is being designed to handle 6 lakh containers. If the jetty increases later, the capacity will increase. ‘Feasibility study has been done. A 480 meter long jetty is being constructed. Connected to the river. Later roads and railways will be added. Containers on large ships will actually reduce costs, attracting traders. Road communication will be completed by 2026.

He said, There can be many terminal ports under one port. Matarbari Port is within the limits of Chittagong Port. Pre-feasibility study has been done with Japanese funding.

Team Leader Mr. Hotani said, We are working responsibly.The first step will be design, civil work. The second step will be to collect the handling equipment.The latest Japanese technology will be used in this project.The issue of earthquakes has been kept in mind. Technical assistance will be provided. Port Secretary, Md. Omar Farooq and others concerned was also present at the time.