The government broke ground yesterday on the EGP 1.3 bn multipurpose platform at Damietta Port, Ahram Gate reports. The project, which is expected to increase cargo handling by 4 mn tonnes and generate an annual EGP 160 mn in revenues, is set to be completed within 18 months. Meanwhile, the Damietta Container and Cargo Handling (DCCH) has received four offers from local and international companies to develop the ports piers for EGP 650 mn, company chief Saad Zaghloul tells Al Shorouk. The DCCH will be vetting offers from Orascom Construction, Petrojet, China Harbour, and an Armed Forces company, and should make a decision within the next two months.