BSC's 'MV Banglar Pragati' begins commercial voyage

The bulk ship 'Banglar Pragati', which joined the fleet of Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC), has begun its commercial voyage. The ship began its first commercial voyage from China's Xingjiang International Berth at 10 am local time on Monday (October 27).

Commodore Mahmudul Malek, Managing Director of BSC, informed that this is the greatest achievement in the 50-year history of BSC.

He said, the ship 'Banglar Pragati' has set sail from China's Xingjiang International Berth. The ship will first go to Zhoushan, China for bunkering (ship fuel). After bunkering, the ship will head towards the loading port.' However, what goods will it carry on its first voyage? To which destination? He said that he will confirm it with his charter company.

BSC said that the 199-meter-long, 33-meter-wide, 18-meter-deep 'Banglar Pragati' ship is capable of transporting 65,000 tons of goods. The ship's main engine is built under a German license, assembled in China. The pump is from Spain and the compressor is from Norway. The ship has already undergone a trial run in China. The ship was named 'SCL Gemini' during construction. Although it previously carried the flag of the Marshall Islands, it will carry out commercial activities under the Bangladeshi flag.

Sources said that on September 21, BSC and supplier/seller Hellenic Dry Bulk Ventures LLC signed a supply agreement. Earlier, the Ministry of Shipping approved the project's DPP on June 3 for the implementation of the project for the period from June 2025 to June 2027 and invited international tenders on June 4.

The ships built under the Green Ship concept have design and technical solutions that are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly and compliant with international environmental standards. Meets the latest environmental standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which is very important in controlling global carbon emissions.

Effectively controls nitrogen oxide emissions from the main engines of ships, significantly reducing environmental pollution. Lowers fuel consumption and increases operational efficiency, which directly impacts economic savings. Reduces hydrodynamic drag to increase ship speed and ensures fuel savings. Reduces wind resistance to ensure speed and fuel savings, especially effective during high-speed operations.

In 2018 and 2019, Bangladesh Shipping Corporation purchased six ships, three each with financial assistance from the Chinese government for Tk 1,843 crore. For the first time, this time it is purchasing two ships for Tk 935 crore with its own financing. Of these, ‘MB Banglar Pragati’ has been added to the fleet. ‘MB Banglar Navjatra’ is scheduled to be added to the fleet in the first week of December. BSC plans to earn Tk 200 crore annually from these two ships.