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Fuel ships to dock first at Chattogram port

Fuel ships to dock first at Chattogram port
Chattogram port. File Photo: Zakir Hossain/TIMES
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At present, 14 fuel-carrying vessels are either waiting at the outer anchorage or heading toward the port. These include five LNG carriers and two LPG carriers from countries such as Qatar, Oman and the United Arab Emirates

The Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) has decided to provide priority berthing facilities for fuel-carrying vessels in a move aimed at ensuring an uninterrupted supply of energy products to the country amid global uncertainties.

The decision was announced following a coordination meeting held at the CPA conference room on Sunday, chaired by CPA Chairman SM Moniruzzaman. Officials reviewed the current fuel supply situation and assessed the port’s preparedness to maintain smooth operations despite volatility in global fuel markets.

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According to the port authority, fuel supply and handling operations at the country’s principal seaport remain normal despite geopolitical tensions worldwide. Officials noted that most bunkering and fuel supply operations for ships calling at the port are sourced from Singapore and Malaysia, which has helped limit the impact of global instability on the port’s fuel supply chain.

Statistics presented at the meeting showed that fuel tankers from various countries are continuing to arrive regularly. At present, 14 fuel-carrying vessels are either waiting at the outer anchorage or heading toward the port. These include five LNG carriers and two LPG carriers from countries such as Qatar, Oman and the United Arab Emirates.

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In addition, tankers transporting diesel and furnace oil from Singapore and Malaysia are also arriving regularly. Officials said the continuous arrival of fuel vessels and the port’s efficient berthing system indicate that there is currently no congestion at the port, and fuel handling operations are being conducted smoothly.

Participants at the meeting further said that the country’s existing fuel reserves remain satisfactory, with adequate capacity to meet demand from industries and maritime trade. Authorities emphasised that there are no immediate obstacles in meeting fuel requirements for key sectors.

Speaking at the meeting, Rear Admiral Moniruzzaman stressed the need to explore alternative fuel supply sources and strengthen coordination among relevant agencies to further reinforce the country’s energy supply system. He urged all stakeholders to work collectively to ensure the continuity of fuel supply.

Representatives from several organisations attended the meeting, including the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation, the Bangladesh Navy, the Bangladesh Coast Guard and various private fuel suppliers and shipping associations.

The port authority also requested law enforcement agencies to assist in maintaining security for vessels stationed at the outer anchorage.

Officials said a coordinated action plan involving all stakeholders has already been adopted to maintain the smooth functioning of the fuel supply system. As part of this effort, fuel-carrying ships will continue to receive special priority for berthing at Chattogram Port, ensuring that Bangladesh’s energy supply remains stable despite global uncertainties.

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