Govt to enhance modern tech to boost waterway cargo

The government is set to enhance the internal container and bulk terminal project in Narayanganj with modern technology to boost waterway cargo transportation. The initiative aims to strengthen Bangladesh’s commercial infrastructure by improving transportation efficiency and expanding internal cargo movement.

The integration of advanced facilities and technologies will unlock new opportunities for the country’s commercial sector, facilitating faster and more efficient movement of goods through the country's waterways.

A Planning Commission official told the Daily Sun the first revised Development Project Proposal (DPP) in this regard will be presented for approval at the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) meeting today.

The project will establish vital infrastructure for container and bulk cargo transportation from Chattogram, Mongla, and other ports via internal waterways, adding a new dimension to commercial activities in Dhaka and surrounding regions, and supporting industrial development in these areas, he added.

Project revision and increased costs

The initial approved cost for the project was Tk392 crore, but the revised proposal has increased the budget to Tk615.75 crore, marking an increase of Tk223.75 crore or 57.08%. The revised plan includes several new elements, such as a modern fire-fighting system, permanent electricity supply infrastructure, warehouse facilities, and CCTV security systems for enhanced safety.  

The project’s timeline has also been extended. Initially, it was scheduled for implementation from January 2020 to June 2023, but due to several complications, it was extended until 2025. Currently, the timeline has been further extended by two more years, with plans to complete the project by June 2027.

Objectives and rationale

By establishing the internal container and bulk terminal in Narayanganj, the project aims to streamline and integrate Bangladesh’s freight transportation system. This initiative will boost the commercial and industrial activities in the regions surrounding Dhaka, including Narayanganj, Gazipur, Savar, Manikganj, Narsingdi, and other northern districts, where container transport is currently not possible. The establishment of such infrastructure will create incentives for new industrial setups and foster long-term economic growth.

Furthermore, the project will enhance regional trade by making container and bulk cargo transportation from Chattogram and Mongla ports more efficient and faster. It will also contribute to the success of cargo transportation by developing transit sheds, storage yards, and multi-purpose RCC jetties.

Project progress and recommendations

Currently, the physical progress of the project stands at 10%, while the financial progress is at 3.82%.

Once completed, the project will significantly expand the scope of internal waterway cargo transportation and create new business opportunities.

If approved, the project will modernize and enhance the country’s freight transportation system, further strengthening Bangladesh's position in global trade.

New additions in the revised DPP

The revised project proposal includes several key infrastructure additions, notably the implementation of an advanced fire-fighting system and 11 kVA HT lines to ensure continuous power supply for the project’s operations.

Additionally, boundary walls, CCTV security systems, and an integrated building management system will be installed to improve safety and control.

The project will also include the construction of three reach forklift trucks, a basement for a six-story administrative building, a three-story store office, and an Ansar barrack, along with various utility infrastructures. Plans for a water supply system for the port area and other modern security measures have also been incorporated, contributing to the increased project cost.