A technical seminar on “Safeguarding Marine Ecosystems: Ballast Water Management” was held on Monday at Hotel Agrabad, Chattogram, organized by The Nautical Institute Chattogram Branch.
Maritime professionals, regulators, and industry representatives gathered to discuss sustainable shipping practices, ballast water management, and environmental compliance.
The event was moderated by General Secretary of The Nautical Institute Captain Moin Uddin. It began with a welcome address from Chairman of the Branch Captain M A Malek. A video presentation highlighted the importance of marine environmental protection.
The keynote address was delivered by Designated Person Ashore (DPA) and Company Security Officer (CSO) of Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC) Captain Md Abu Sufian. He emphasized the importance of Ballast Water Management Plans (BWMPs), regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and crew training in safeguarding marine ecosystems.
The seminar was graced by Managing Director of BSC Commodore Mahmudul Malek as the Chief Guest. He praised the initiative and reaffirmed BSC’s commitment to environmentally responsible operations, including the development of eco-friendly vessels and the adoption of modern technology for operational excellence.
Special Guest Captain Shahidul Islam from Sollant Maritime University, London, UK, shared insights on teaching methods, professional knowledge, mariner careers, and capacity building for maritime professionals.
The seminar also featured an interactive Q&A session, a presentation titled “Maritime Forecast 2050,” and the presentation of crests and certificates, including an appreciation crest to the keynote speaker and a gratitude crest to the Chief Guest.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Principal Officer of Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) Captain Sabbir Mahmood, followed by a networking session with participants from Bangladesh Shipping
Corporation, Chattogram Port Authority, Mercantile Marine Department, Marine Academy Chattogram, classification societies, BMMOA, Marine Surveyors Association, IMarEST, and maritime professionals and students from Bangladesh Marine Academy and World Maritime University.
