Chattogram Port Authority has activated an emergency action plan to keep essential imports flowing and stabilise markets during Ramadan, placing the port under round-the-clock operations.
The decisions were taken at two strategic meetings on 19 February, according to an official press release.
Authorities said the measures aim to prevent congestion and avoid any disruption to the supply chain during the peak consumption period.
Chattogram Port Authority Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman chaired the first meeting and warned that delays, bottlenecks or operational lapses would not be tolerated. He declared a zero tolerance stance on supply disruptions, stressing that protecting the economy and consumer interests during Ramadan must remain the top priority.
Under the plan, cargo handling, vessel turnaround and container delivery will operate on a 24/7 basis.
Chattogram Custom House has been requested to continue customs clearance of imports and export shipments day and night to avoid delays.
High-demand Ramadan commodities including dates, fruits, spices, sugar and edible oil will be discharged and delivered on a priority basis. The chairman directed all relevant agencies to coordinate closely to ensure seamless port operations throughout the month.
To ease congestion, the port has launched a crash programme to move nearly 2,000 Dhaka-bound containers currently at the port. Container transport through Bangladesh Railway will be strengthened to accelerate inland delivery, particularly to the capital.
Two task forces have been formed to monitor container handling and port operations in real time. The teams will track performance indicators and oversee cargo flow to ensure continuity.
A dedicated Quick Response Team has also been set up to maintain operational readiness of port equipment and immediately address technical faults to prevent downtime.
Officials at the meeting said scanning operations have slowed because four to five customs-operated scanners inside the port are out of service, creating long queues of cargo vehicles and disrupting routine movement.
Customs authorities have been urged to expedite repair and modernisation of the scanners to restore full capacity and reduce congestion.
The second meeting was chaired by Port Member Harbour and Marine Commodore Ahmed Arif Abdullah, who discussed operational preparedness with stakeholders.
Participants agreed to maintain maximum readiness so that all port equipment remains functional during the peak period. Industry bodies including the Bangladesh Shipping Agents Association and the Bangladesh Inland Container Depots Association committed to providing additional manpower and logistical support in line with the 24-hour operational schedule.
Representatives from the Chattogram Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association, customs and railway officials, truck and covered van owners’ associations and other port-related organisations attended the meeting.
