Integrated port policy or a white paper must be formulated focusing on the ports of Bangladesh, particularly Chattogram Port, Political analyst Farhad Mazhar said today (27 September).
“The development of the ports must be aligned with national interests to ensure long-term growth and sustainability,” he made the remark while speaking as the chief guest at a roundtable discussion at the Chattogram Circuit House.
The event titled “Chattogram Port: Reality And Reforms” was organised by Chattogram-based English daily The People’s View.
The analyst emphasised that Chattogram Port is not just a commercial hub but also a significant military and geopolitical asset.
“The port’s efficiency is crucial for the country’s economy, as 90% of Bangladesh’s export-import activities pass through it. In the context of the government’s strategies, Chattogram Port plays a pivotal role in geopolitics and national security,” he added.
He further said, “What we currently have are exploiters. We need real investors who can elevate Bangladesh to the level of China in the next five years by investing in technology, training people, and advancing the information technology sector.”
Highlighting the deep-sea port at Matarbari is poised to become a battleground for geopolitical interests, Mazhar said, “Deciding who will operate the port—India or China—is a critical national question. This is not a decision that can be made lightly; it requires thorough research and careful deliberation.”
Addressing the broader geopolitical landscape, the analyst predicted that the Bay of Bengal will become a key arena in global power struggles.
He urged the people of Chattogram to be vigilant and proactive, conducting comprehensive studies to safeguard the port’s future.
“A committee of experts must be formed to ensure that real investors are involved in decision-making,” he said.
Other speakers at the roundtable, chaired by The People’s View Deputy Editor Shamsad Sattar and moderated by Executive Editor Saleh Noman, included former Chattogram Port Authority member Zafar Alam, Chattogram Customs Deputy Commissioner Tarek Hasan, Freight Forwarders Association Vice President Khairul Alam Sujon, Convener of the Deprived Business Forum and former Joint Convener of Chattogram Metropolitan BNP Saiful Alam, as well as senior journalists Mia Mohammad Arif and Shamsuddin Illius.
They called for an investigation into the corruption and exploitation of resources by the previous government regarding port operations.
The speakers also demanded the removal of current operators appointed by the previous regime and stressed the need for the interim government to initiate immediate reforms to improve the port’s services.
