Dhaka, June 8 -- A consortium of three domestic companies, led by Saif Powertec Limited, has proposed to operate the much-discussed New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) at Chittagong Port for 15 years.

The development was made public on Monday, despite the proposal being sent to the shipping ministry on Apr 29.

The government, however, on Thursday directed the Chittagong Port Authority to continue discussions with Dubai-based DP World on the lease of the NCT.

The consortium comprises Cosmos Enterprises and Everest Port Services Limited.

The proposal by the "Saif-Cosmos-Everest Port Services Consortium" was signed by Saif Powertec Managing Director Tarafdar Md Ruhul Amin, Cosmos Enterprises Managing Partner Hasin bin Ashraf and Everest...