Dhaka, July 12 -- A move gets underway to hire local and foreign consultants for Tk 274.20 million for operating systems automation of Pyra seaport, while the port struggles for viability, sources said Friday.

Besides, they said, superfluous purchases and staff training at additional costs also have been proposed under the project.

The Pyra Port Authority (PPA) has proposed the purchase of one jeep and four motorcycles at Tk 5.36 million, although it is deemed not necessary for port automation, they added.

Furthermore, the Authority would spend Tk 5.0 million for operating those motorbikes under a proposed Tk 1.60-billion 'Upgradation of ICT facilities of the Pyra Port Authority for its digitisation project', the project-insiders said....