HR Wallingford, a British consultancy firm, that conducted the last study on the Karnaphuli River back in 1961, is back to embark on a fresh study on the lifeline of Chattogram after almost six decades.
Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) and HR Wallingford signed a contract for the project at Bandar Bhaban on 19 Novermber, 2020.
Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) Chairman Rear Admiral SM Abul Kalam Azad, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Robert Chatterton Dickson and HR Wallingford’s local agent Dr Manzur Haque, among others were present at the signing ceremony.
According to the port officials, the study styled ‘Detailed Hydrologic and Hydraulic Study in Karnaphuli River’ has been undertaken to ensure maximum efficiency of the seaport.
Currently, Chattogram port can accommodate vessels with 9.5-metre draft. The study will explore the possibility if the port could accommodate larger ships.
Speaking on ceremony, CPA Chairman Rear Admiral SM Abul Kalam Azad said, ‘The port had undertaken infrastructural plans based on the study conducted in 1961. The port will undertake its future plans in line with the recommendations obtained from the latest study.’
British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Robert Chatterton Dickson thanked the port authority for selecting British consultancy firm for the study.
Martin Young, chief technical director, HR Wallingford, said, ‘We first studied Karnaphuli River over 60 years ago, so are delighted to return to Chattogram to help the port go from strength to strength.’
