Govt to take tough stance to end Chittagong Port strike

Shipping Adviser Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M Shakhawat Hossain on Sunday (February 8) said that the government has decided to adopt a hardline approach to resolve the ongoing disruption at Chittagong port.

Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat, he said several individuals involved in paralyzing port operations have already been arrested, and more arrests will follow if necessary. “A self-interested group is trying to hold the entire Chittagong port hostage. The government will not sit idle if this continues,” he added.

The adviser noted that DP World has requested additional time regarding port contracts, and discussions could continue after the upcoming election if required.

He also warned that new demands from concerned parties and potential disruptions in electoral areas could threaten the integrity of the polls, drawing the Election Commission’s attention. “If elections in one constituency are compromised, the entire process could be questioned,” he said.

Highlighting the severity of the port disruption ahead of Ramadan, the adviser said ships carrying pulses, lentils, and edible oil remain stuck at the outer anchorage, effectively affecting 18 million people. “This situation is unacceptable. Anyone obstructing port operations, directly or indirectly, will face strict action. Some have already been detained, and legal measures will follow against others,” he added.

On the DP World contract, the adviser said the process is ongoing, with negotiations possibly continuing after elections. He noted that the port chairman will provide details on when full operations are expected to resume.