New Delhi (NVI): Union Minister of State for Shipping, Mansukh Mandaviya, today flagged off the first trial container ship from Kolkata to Agartala through Chattogram Port of Bangladesh, in a virtual ceremony.
The container ship was sailed under the Agreement on use of Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of India’s transit cargo through Bangladesh.
Speaking on the occasion, Mandaviya said, “The route will open doors of new opportunities for both the countries. It will provide the alternative and shorter route to connect the North East Region through Bangladesh.”
“This is a historic move to utilize Chattogram and Mongla Port for movement of India’s transit cargo. It will be a new chapter in India-Bangladesh maritime relations,” the Minister added.
This movement will reduce distance and time taken in transportation of goods for India and is a win-win for both the economies.
In addition to this, it will also create jobs, enhance business services and generate revenue for both the countries.
The trial runs highlight the efforts that both sides have undertaken to strengthen the connectivity between Bangladesh and the North Eastern states of India, as per the understanding reached between the two countries during the visit of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India in October 2019.
During her visit, the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the use of Chattogram and Mongla ports for movement of goods to and from India, were concluded.
-CHK
