Operations at Bangladesh’s Chattogram Port remain paralysed as workers and employees continue their work stoppage in protest against the government’s plan to lease the New Mooring Container Terminal to a foreign port operator. The ongoing strike has brought container handling, loading and unloading activities to a near standstill, severely disrupting port operations.
The prolonged stoppage has resulted in a large accumulation of export containers at private inland container depots, causing congestion and delays in shipment schedules. Exporters and shipping agents have expressed concern that continued disruption could affect trade flows and increase costs, especially with the upcoming peak demand period.
Protest leaders have alleged that the transfer of several employees involved in the movement to other ports has further escalated tensions. They have warned that the agitation will intensify unless the government withdraws its decision regarding the terminal lease.
Hundreds of trucks have been stranded at the port gates due to halted cargo movement, adding pressure on supply chains. Business leaders have cautioned that if the situation persists, it could have a serious impact on import-export activities and the national economy.
Chattogram Port handles the majority of Bangladesh’s maritime trade, and authorities have tightened security in and around the port area amid the continuing deadlock. No immediate breakthrough has been reported so far to resolve the dispute.
