Leaders of the Rajshahi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) have urged authorities to swiftly open the Sultanganj river port in Godagari upazila, highlighting its potential to reduce trade costs, stimulate regional business, and create employment opportunities.
RCCI Delegation Visits Port Area
A delegation of RCCI visited the port area on Sunday to assess infrastructure and gather information for a report requested by the National Board of Revenue (NBR) on the port's opening. The delegation included RCCI President Hasen Ali, former president Masudur Rahman Rinku, Senior Vice President Shamsur Rahman Shantonu, Vice President Ziauddin Ahmed, Director Golam Saklain, and importer-exporter Aminul Islam.
Economic and Employment Benefits
Importer-exporter Aminul Islam stated that the necessary infrastructure, including unloading facilities and road connectivity, has already been prepared. He emphasized that opening the port would significantly lower the cost of importing stones from India and increase government revenue. RCCI Senior Vice President Shamsur Rahman Shantonu noted that the northern region is grappling with an employment crisis, and the river port could help expand trade and generate jobs. He added that the chamber plans to meet NBR officials to press for early approval.
Former RCCI president Masudur Rahman Rinku mentioned that five lighter vessels operated on a trial basis after the port's inauguration on February 12, 2024, generating around Tk 8 lakh in revenue before operations were suspended. RCCI President Hasen Ali highlighted that the port would reduce transport costs and time for exports and imports between Bangladesh and India. He announced that the chamber would submit a report to NBR soon as requested by its chairman.
