Dry Dock authorities to take over operations of Ctg port’s NCT

Chittagong Dry Dock Limited (CDDL) is set to assume control of the much-discussed New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) at Chattogram port.

Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) Secretary Md Omar Faruk confirmed that a contract with CDDL will be signed on Sunday next.

He said that the Ministry of Shipping has informed them that the dry dock, which is operated by the Bangladesh Navy, will manage the NCT under the direct procurement method for an initial period of six months.

He added that CDDL has already begun taking over responsibilities at the terminal.

The government had previously decided not to renew the contract with the current operator, Saif Powertec, which is set to expire on 6 July.

It is worth noting that the previous Awami League (AL) government had initiated efforts to bring in a foreign operator for the modern, well-equipped terminal.

In recent months, renewed efforts by the interim government to engage a foreign operator have sparked widespread debate. Senior government officials, including the chief adviser, have spoken in favour of the move, citing potential benefits.

However, the initiative has drawn criticism from various quarters, including political parties and labour organisations based at the port. Critics argue that, as the NCT was developed and fully equipped with public funds, there is no need for additional investment from private or foreign entities.

Back in 2007, the CPA developed the NCT at an estimated cost of Tk400 crore, attracting interest from several international companies willing to invest in and operate the terminal. The port authority even floated international tenders, but these were later cancelled under government pressure, according to sources. As a result, the terminal could not be launched despite being fully operational at the time.

After a delay of seven years, the CPA invested several thousand crore taka from its own coffers to equip the terminal. Eventually, responsibility for handling containers at the five jetties of the country’s largest terminal was awarded to the domestic firm Saif Powertec. The company’s contract has been extended several times over the years.