STAR REPORT

The interim government has taken initiatives to turn Chattogram Port into a “world-class” facility by involving top global port management companies, said Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus yesterday.

He made the remarks while speaking at the Chattogram Port during his day-long tour of the port city -- his first visit since assuming office, reports BSS.

“It will be a big opportunity for us,” he said, adding that materialising the plans would boost the national economy and create thousands of jobs.

“To transform Bangladesh’s economy, Chattogram Port is our hope. Without it, there’s no alternative,” the chief adviser said.

Describing the port as the “heart” of Bangladesh’s economy, he added, “If the heart is weak, no physician can fix it. That’s why we must make it world-class.” He noted that although top global port management firms were invited earlier, there had been no meaningful progress.

“This heart must be connected with our neighbours; that’s why I mentioned Nepal and the seven sisters (the seven northeastern states of India). They will benefit if they are connected to it, and so will we. Those not connected will be the losers,” he said.

Recalling his childhood memories with the port, Prof Yunus said, “Chattogram Port is not new to me. I’ve known it since childhood. Though it has changed over time, progress has been slow. Since I got a chance, from day one, I have looked for ways to improve it.” “The world has moved ahead, and we are far behind. No one seems to care. That’s why I pushed for change,” he added.

He called for handing over port operations to leading global firms, saying, “I hope everyone will understand the reality of the situation.”

Shipping Adviser Brig Gen (retd) Shakhawat Hossain said the construction of several new terminals would reduce container congestion. “I hope you’ll see the difference within six months,” he added.