CHITTAGONG Nov 10. The plan for constructing another container terminal at Chittagong port plunged into uncer-lamty as the whole protect remained shelved in the Planning Commission for a long time, concerned sources said

The project is yet to see the light of the day as the govern ment remained undecided about its funding arrangements.

Initially the plan was taken up for constructing another container terminal adjacent to the existing ones from the own funds of Chittagong Port Authority during the regime of past government while M K Anwar was the minister for Ports and Shipping, port sources said

But the decision was reportedly reversed during the tenure of another minister for Ports and Shipping who asked the

concerned authorities to look for overseas fund for constructing the terminal

On the otherhand. during the tenure of the caretaker government. the decision was taken for building the terminal from port's own fund showing the reason that Chittagong Port Authority has huge idle money lying with different banks, sources added.

Now the decision has been dropped and the authorities have again started to look for foreign fund

Japan-based Overseas Economic Cooperation Fund (OECD) has reportedly come forward to provide required funds against Die project of new terminal.

Bui the relevant authorities of the government fell In a dilemma about taking any

clearcut decision in this regard.

Port sources said rapid growth of container cargo had prompted for taking a plan to construct another terminal. At an estimated cost of Taka 800

Earlier, two container terminals known as multi-purpose berths were built at this major Sof the country at a cost of i 400 crores to cope with the growing size of containers.

Port officials said every year there has been a growth of container cargo al the rate of 30 per cent.

In the current fiscal year. Chittagong port targetted to handle 3.50.000 TEUs containers. port sources said.

In 1995-96 fiscal year Chit-Oufoiig port handled 2.50.000 TEUs container, port reports