Payra Port is expected to be fully operational from July 2026, as part of an extensive development initiative aimed at transforming it into a complete deep-sea port.
Speaking at a stakeholder exchange meeting on Tuesday, Rear Admiral Masud Iqbal, Chairman of Payra Port Authority, outlined the progress and upcoming plans for the port.
He stated that the transformation involves implementing 19 major components. Currently, the port channel has a depth of over 6.5 meters, which enables mother vessels carrying 40,000–50,000 metric tons of cargo to dock. With ongoing maintenance dredging, the depth is expected to increase to 10.5 meters, potentially making Payra the deepest port in the country.
A new two-year project has been initiated to support this goal and two dredgers have already been procured. By conducting dredging operations in-house, the port aims to significantly reduce costs. The expenses will be offset by handling coal for two nearby power plants, the chairman added.
Highlighting the port’s geographical advantages, Rear Admiral Iqbal noted its proximity to the capital via both waterways and roadways, which makes transport more time and cost-efficient. With 24-hour container transport possible through the river route and the nearing completion of a six-lane highway, goods will be moved more smoothly, avoiding traffic congestion.
Other speakers at the session included Commodore Md Abdul Kader, Member (Engineering and Development), Captain Md. Jamal Uddin Chowdhury, Member (Harbor and Marine) and Sumon Hawlader, Director of Mongla, Payra, Pangaon land Ports. Leaders from the shipping and logistics sectors, such as Md. Mizanur Rahman, President of C&F Agents Federation and Mamunur Rashid, Director of Bangladesh Shipping Agents Association, also shared their views.
The event was attended by representatives from various government departments, businesses, port users and media personalities.
Several speakers emphasized the importance of addressing the port’s current limitations to ensure it meets its full potential.
MP/SH
