Despite the extended Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, the country’s principal seaport, Chattogram Port Authority, maintained uninterrupted operations, recording significant cargo handling through careful planning and coordinated efforts.
According to a press release issued on Wednesday, the port handled a total of 2.508 million metric tons of cargo between 17 March and 23 March. Of this, 2.361 million tonnes were imports, while 146,828 tonnes were exports. The highest single-day cargo handling was recorded on 18 March, when 434,434 metri tonnes were processed.
Container handling also remained strong, with 54,898 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units container capacity) moved during the period. This included 28,961 import containers and 25,937 export containers. 18 March marked the peak, with 11,861 TEUs handled in a single day.
A total of 64 vessels berthed and were processed during the seven-day period. The highest number 14 ships—was handled on 19 March. Operations slowed slightly on Eid day (21 March) but quickly regained pace, returning to full activity by 23 March, when 12 vessels were handled.
Port yard occupancy remained within manageable limits. As of 24 March, the yard held 43,200 TEUs against a capacity of 59,000 TEUs. Of these, 36,253 TEUs were full containers, 2,654 TEUs depot containers, and 1,652 TEUs empty. Additionally, 512 TEUs destined for ICD Kamalapur were stationed at the port. In the last 24 hours alone, 1,581 TEUs were delivered, while 525 TEUs were ready for dispatch.
The press release, signed by CPA Secretary and spokesperson Syed Refayet Hamim, attributed the success to proactive measures implemented ahead of Eid and effectively executed during the holidays. A dedicated task force ensured steady supply of fuel and essential commodities during Ramadan and Eid, closely monitoring unloading operations at jetties and the outer anchorage.
Priority berthing and navigational support were extended to vessels carrying fuel and essential goods, ensuring uninterrupted arrival, unloading, and departure. Port staff worked on a roster system, while senior officials maintained round-the-clock supervision to keep operations smooth.
The port authority also coordinated with law enforcement, including metropolitan police in Chattogram and Dhaka, to ensure seamless transportation of goods during the holidays.
Although heavy vehicular movement was restricted on highways during Eid, vehicles carrying essential imports and exports were allowed to operate using special permits. This measure helped maintain the supply chain and stabilise market prices.
Notably, the port achieved “zero waiting time” for vessels at the outer anchorage—a major improvement over the previous two to three days’ waiting caused by increased congestion. Officials described this as a significant operational success, resulting from enhanced coordination and efficient management.
