Tirupati: A high-level Bangladeshi delegation toured the Adani Krishnapatnam Port in Nellore on Monday to bolster maritime relations.
This visit was a crucial step in implementing the coastal shipping agreement between the two nations aimed at streamlining trade and enhancing nautical cooperation.
The 13-member team from Bangladesh, joined by senior Indian officials, explored the infrastructure and facilities in Krishnapatnam. Representatives from key maritime bodies, including the Inland Waterways Authority and the ministry of ports, shipping & waterways, provided insights into the port's advanced operations and commercial potential.
“This visit opens new avenues for bilateral trade," an official said and added, "Krishnapatnam's infrastructure demonstrates our readiness to handle increased maritime traffic with Bangladesh.”
The Bangladeshi officials were particularly impressed by the port's capacity to manage large-scale import-export operations. "We see great potential for expanding our trade routes through this port,” noted a member of the visiting delegation.
Experts believe this collaboration could lead to reduced shipping costs and faster cargo movement, ultimately benefiting businesses on both sides. As India and Bangladesh continue to strengthen their maritime ties, the region may see a significant boost in economic activities and cross-border trade.
Krishnapatnam Port, located on India's East Coast, is an all-weather deep-water port capable of handling cape sze vessels year-round. It serves south India's landlocked hinterland with road and rail connectivity, close to NH16 and the Chennai-Kolkata rail line.
The port features state-of-the-art infrastructure, mechanised handling systems and dedicated storage yards for clean and contamination-free bulk and break bulk cargo handling.
The delegation from Bangladesh, led by SM Mostafa Kamal, joint secretary to the shipping ministry and Sheikh Saleh Ahammed, joint secretary to the Union home ministry, also visited the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) and were warmly received by chairperson of VPA, M. Angamuthu.
The purpose of the visit was to explore export-import (EXIM) trade opportunities with India, with a specific focus on assessing the potential for collaboration and improvement, to facilitate smoother trade operations between the two nations.
The delegation's discussions with VPA encompassed critical aspects, including ease of business, turn-around-time, customs clearance, port connectivity, transhipment, cruise passenger handling, congestion management and dredging activities. These aimed to identify areas of mutual interest and enhance trade benefits for both the countries.
The port tour was part of a larger initiative, with the team set to visit Haldia and Kolkata ports too. These visits underscore a joint commitment to revolutionising maritime logistics between the two countries, officials said.
