Chattogram Port, the country’s largest seaport, faced severe operational disruptions on Saturday after workers went on strike to protest plans to lease the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to Dubai-based logistics firm DP World, halting cargo handling and raising concerns over trade delays.
Loading and unloading activities at multiple jetties came to a standstill, while the movement of container-laden trailers, trucks and lorries through the port’s main gate was suspended, disrupting both import and export operations, port officials and labour leaders said.
The work stoppage, backed by the Nationalist Workers’ Party and several allied trade unions, began in the morning and is set to continue on Sunday, organisers said.
Labour groups warned of tougher action if the leasing process is not withdrawn.
Port operations were ‘almost completely stalled’ after union-backed labour organisations initiated the strike, according to port sources.
Container handling at the JCB Terminal, Chattogram Container Terminal (CCT) and NCT has nearly stopped, increasing the risk of vessel congestion and higher costs as several ships remain unable to unload cargo on schedule.
Despite directives from the Chattogram Port Authority banning rallies and processions, workers staged demonstrations, processions and sit-in programmes from around 11am.
Security across the port area was tightened following the protests.
Workers say they oppose handing over the profitable NCT to a foreign operator, citing concerns over job security and national interests.
“Workers fear job losses and risks to national security if the terminal is handed over to a foreign company,” said Taslim Hossain Selim, general secretary of the Dock Nationalist Workers’ Party.
Humayun Kabir, coordinator of the Bandar Rakkha Sangram Parisad, said the slowdown has already triggered concerns over mounting congestion and additional operational costs.
Chattogram Port Nationalist Workers’ Party General Secretary Ibrahim Khokon said a large number of workers joined the strike, which was scheduled to continue until 4pm on Saturday, effectively paralysing normal port activities.
Meanwhile, the Chattogram Port Authority issued a notice warning of disciplinary action against anyone participating in strikes, protests or demonstrations related to the NCT leasing issue.
Chattogram Port handles more than 90% of Bangladesh’s seaborne trade, making any prolonged disruption a potential risk to supply chains and trade flows.