India has shown a keen interest in managing operations at Bangladesh’s Mongla Port and in constructing a new terminal at the site. This comes amid China’s attempts to gain control over the strategically important port. India’s interest in Mongla aligns with its broader strategy to counter China’s expanding influence in the region.
Currently, India already holds operational rights at the Chabahar Port in Iran and the Sittwe Port in Myanmar. The potential addition of Mongla Port would further enhance India’s strategic presence across the Indian Ocean.
According to sources close to the development, this move, if successful, India’s management of the Mongla Port will secure its influence over key maritime locations on both the western and eastern fronts of the Indian Ocean, reinforcing its position as a dominant player in the region’s security architecture.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to discuss this matter with Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during their upcoming meetings, the ET reported.
India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) has visited Mongla Port to study its operations, and negotiations are underway. If successful, Mongla will be India’s third international port operation after Chabahar and Sittwe.
Mongla Port Authority will evaluate the proposal, considering its profitability. The port currently operates container and bulk carrier vessels and plans to construct two more jetties to handle increased cargo volume from transshipment.
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After Iran’s Chabahar, India wants to operate Bangladesh’s Mongla Port
