Strike disrupts container handling, transport at Ctg Port

A full-scale strike has begun at Chittagong Port called by Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal in protest against government’s move to lease the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to the foreign company DP World.

According to a prior announcement, the programme started at 8am on Saturday.

As a result of the strike, container loading and unloading at the port’s jetties has been disrupted, and transportation is hampered.

Sources said fewer trucks and lorries are entering the port premises compared to normal days to collect containers.

Fazle Akram Chowdhury, president of the Berth Operators, Ship Handling Operators, and Terminal Operators Association, told Daily Sun, "Employees and workers have stopped operations at the port’s general cargo berths since the morning. Container handling on three jetties is affected."

He warned that if the situation continues for a long time, it could have adverse impacts on the country’s supply chain and international trade.

The Sramil Dal leaders have also announced a similar programme for Sunday from 8am to 4pm, during which all operational and office activities will remain suspended.

Meanwhile, the port authority has taken a firm stance following reports of disorderly conduct related to the NCT High Court verdict. Officers and staff participating in rallies, marches, or demonstrations during office hours have been warned that disciplinary action will be taken.

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The warning was issued through a notice signed by Mohammad Omar Faruk, Director (Administration) of the port.

Various organisations, including Sramil Dal, have been protesting for a long time against the plan to hand over NCT operations to the foreign company.