Strike creates chaos and major delays at Chittagong Port

Congestion at Bangladesh’s Chittagong Port is escalating due to workers’ strike. Prime movers and trailer workers halted operations after an alleged attack by government officials, causing vessel delays of up to two days or departures without containers.

Muntasir Rubayat, Director of the Bangladesh Shipping Agents’ Association (BSAA), warned that the disruption has severely impacted the port’s operational cycle. With Ramadan nearing and reduced working hours expected, he stressed the urgency of clearing the backlog within 15 days to avoid further escalation.

Currently, 38,000 TEUs of containers are scattered across port yards, and depots are full of outbound cargo. Officials estimate that it will take at least two weeks to resolve the congestion. Shipping companies are also facing extended waiting times, with some vessels anchored outside the port for days.

In week 31 of 2024, nearly 70% of vessels at Chittagong faced delays. Two weeks ago, that number was 25%, but recently, it has surged to 57.5%, raising concerns over worsening conditions. If the backlog persists into Ramadan, delays could significantly impact trade and supply chains.