The much-anticipated Bay Terminal project of Chattogram Port is expected to go into operation by 2030, said Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman, chairman of the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA).
"The terminal will mark a new era for Bangladesh's economy, trade, and export-import activities," he said while addressing the "General Market Engagement Conference for the Bay Terminal Marine Infrastructure Development Project" at the port auditorium on Monday (3 November).
Rear Admiral Moniruzzaman said the Bay Terminal would not only strengthen Chattogram's role but also position Bangladesh more prominently on South Asia's trade map.
"Once operational, the terminal will significantly reduce vessel waiting times and boost the country's export capacity," he said, adding that the overall economy will experience a transformative impact.
Moniruzzaman noted that design and preparatory work for the Bay Terminal construction are nearing completion. "The government and CPA have already held initial discussions with several local and foreign contractors for project execution," he said.
Commodore Kaosar Rashid, member (engineering) of CPA, said the Bay Terminal is a timely response to the growing pressure on Chattogram Port. All port stakeholders, he added, are eager to see its quick implementation.
"The project includes the construction of a breakwater, navigation channel, rail and road links, container yards, jetties, and modern service infrastructure," he said.
In his presentation, Rashid said the Bay Terminal Marine Infrastructure Development Project (BTMIDP) will be implemented between April 2025 and June 2031 at the Anandabazar area in North Halishahar, Chattogram.
Once the terminal becomes operational, CPA expects it will handle at least 6 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) of containers annually — nearly double the port's current capacity, he added.
The conference was attended by representatives of potential local and international contractors, port users, engineers, and officials from the Planning Commission.
Speakers said the successful implementation of the Bay Terminal would help Bangladesh emerge as a major logistics hub for regional trade and elevate Chattogram Port's century-old legacy to new heights.