In Bangladesh, operations at Chattogram Port remained paralysed yesterday as a work stoppage by workers and employees continued, with the export sector bearing the brunt of the disruption.
Repeated suspensions of port activities have caused a sharp build-up of export containers at private inland container depots, with the number rising from around 8,000 before the protests to over 10,000 by Monday afternoon. Exporters and shipping agents warned of growing delays in vessel departures and shipment schedules.
Port workers have been observing daily eight-hour work stoppages since Saturday under the banner of the Chattogram Bandar Rakkha Sangram Parishad, protesting the government’s move to lease the New Mooring Container Terminal to UAE-based operator DP World.
Port users cautioned that prolonged disruption could push up commodity prices ahead of Ramadan, while vessels are already facing longer stays at jetties. Importers, particularly garment exporters, are also struggling to receive raw materials on time.
Tensions have escalated after the port authority and the Ministry of Shipping transferred several protesting employees, including movement leaders. Protest organisers say the transfers are meant to suppress the movement and have threatened tougher actions if the NCT leasing decision is not withdrawn.
