Sultanganj River Port set to reopen after two-year closure

After remaining closed for over two years, Sultanganj River Port in Rajshahi’s Godagari Upazila is finally set to reopen.

Relevant officials said all necessary infrastructure and preparations have been completed while import-export activities will begin once approval is received.

A consultation meeting was held on June 16 aiming at the full launch of Sultanganj River Port. The meeting was chaired by Rajshahi Divisional Commissioner Dr ANM Bazlur Rashid.

Director of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) AKM Arif Uddin spoke at the meeting virtually. Officials from the National Board of Revenue (NBR), Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), River Police, other government departments, and business representatives participated in the meeting. 

Additional Superintendent of River Police Fazle Elahi said a River Police station would be established once the port opens. There are plans to upgrade the existing outpost into a full-fledged police station.

NBR representatives said there were earlier concerns over the port’s infrastructure and security. However, the required structures have now been built and preparations completed. A final report on the matter will be submitted soon.

Stone importer Aminul Islam said if stones can be imported from Maya Port in Murshidabad, India, transportation costs will be reduced by more than half. This will benefit traders and increase government revenue.

Rajshahi Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Hasen Ali said that alongside Sonamasjid Land Port, Sultanganj River Port would create new trade opportunities in the Rajshahi region. The port will facilitate both import and export activities, helping boost employment and the local economy.

BIWTA Director A K M Arif Uddin said dredging has been carried out at different points of the Padma River along with the development of new infrastructure to ensure smooth vessel movement. Full operations can begin once NBR approval is received.

Rajshahi Divisional Commissioner Dr ANM Bazlur Rashid said employment opportunities would increase and economic activities would expand once the port opens. He expressed optimism that positive progress would be made soon regarding the reopening of the port.

Earlier, last Friday, Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority Member (Planning and Operations) and Joint Secretary Sajedur Rahman visited Sultanganj River Port. He was accompanied by BIWTA Director A K M Arif Uddin.