Fuel Tankers to Get Priority Berthing at Chittagong Port

Fuel tankers will receive priority berthing at Chittagong Port to ensure an uninterrupted fuel supply across the country. The decision was taken at a coordination meeting on the fuel oil supply chain and bunkering operations, chaired by Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman, Chairman of the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA).

The port chairman said the needs of both government and private sectors will be assessed in a coordinated manner to strengthen the fuel supply system.

He noted that most bunkering and fuel supplies for ships calling at Chittagong Port come from Singapore and Malaysia. As a result, the impact of global geopolitical instability on fuel supply to the port remains minimal.

He also urged all concerned organisations to work together to further strengthen the fuel supply chain and explore alternative sources.

At the meeting, officials said port operations and logistics support are continuing without disruption. Law enforcement agencies have been requested to ensure security for vessels at outer anchorages, particularly in relation to energy security.

The Chittagong Port Authority said it remains vigilant and committed to maintaining uninterrupted fuel supply and bunkering operations while ensuring efficient port operations and protecting the country’s energy security.

Officials also said that despite global conflicts and volatility in the international fuel market, the supply and handling of fuel products through ships arriving at the country’s main seaport remain normal.

Latest port statistics presented at the meeting showed a steady presence of fuel tankers from various countries, including the Gulf region. A total of 14 fuel ships are currently at the port’s outer anchorage or on their way.

Several vessels carrying diesel and furnace oil from Singapore and Malaysia are among them, indicating a stable and uninterrupted fuel supply situation.

Officials said the continuous arrival of fuel tankers and prompt berthing arrangements show that there is no congestion at the port and fuel supply is being managed smoothly.

The meeting, held on Sunday (March 8), was attended by port members, senior officials, Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC), the Department of Shipping, Bangladesh Navy, Bangladesh Coast Guard, Omera Fuel Limited, Padma Oil Company, Bangladesh Oceangoing Ship Owners Association, Coastal Ship Owners Association of Bangladesh and the Bangladesh Ship Handling and Berth Operators Association.

Participants said the country’s current fuel reserves are satisfactory and there is sufficient capacity to meet demand. They added that coordinated measures are in place to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply for the maritime, commercial and industrial sectors.