CA announces plans for building new city in Maheshkhali-Matarbari

Chief Adviser (CA) Dr Muhammad Yunus has announced plans to develop not only a deep-sea port but also a new city in Maheshkhali-Matarbari, envisioning it as a hub for international connectivity and the country’s blue economy.

He made the remarks during a meeting with the Maheshkhali Integrated Development Authority (MIDA) at the State Guest House Jamuna on Wednesday (September 3).

MIDA Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, members Commodore Tanjim Faruk and Md. Sarwar Alam, and senior officials including Lamia Morshed and Md. Saifullah Panna attended the meeting.

MIDA Chairman Ashik Chowdhury presented the Maheshkhali-Matarbari project plan, outlining three phases: 2025–2030, 2030–2045, and 2045–2055.

The project is expected to generate around 2.5 million direct and indirect jobs and contribute $150 billion to the GDP.

Professor Yunus emphasized building international-standard research and training facilities focused on deep-sea studies and ocean economy. He suggested seeking global expertise and cooperation to develop academic institutions, conduct research, and organize international conferences on maritime development.

Environmental conservation was also highlighted, with discussions on establishing an eco-tourism park and planning the sustainable management of forest lands in the region.