Chittagong Port Traffic Wing on 48-Hour Election Holiday

The traffic wing of the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) has begun a 48-hour government holiday from Tuesday to mark the 13th National Parliament election and referendum, though limited essential services will remain in operation.

An office order issued on February 9 by the CPA Director (Traffic) said all operational points under the traffic department—including Pangaon Inland Container Terminal and the Dhaka Inland Container Depot—will remain closed from 8:00am on February 11 to 8:00am on February 13.

The closure follows a government order declaring a public holiday to facilitate voting.

Under special arrangements, some port activities will continue. Work on vessels and lighters may proceed with prior approval from customs and the port authority, along with payment of additional charges under existing rules.

For food items, relief goods, and other priority consignments, users must notify the Director (Traffic) or a designated official in advance.

The order said limited manpower will be deployed to oversee essential operations at the traffic department, including at Pangaon ICT and Dhaka ICD.

Banks operating inside the port area, including Janata Bank and One Bank, have been asked to keep their booths open with adequate staff during the holiday. Sonali Bank at the Customs House, relevant customs offices, and private depots have also been instructed to ensure sufficient staffing.

Confirming the arrangements, CPA Director (Admin) Omar Faruk said container handling from vessels will continue during the holiday period, with limited delivery services available for importers seeking to receive goods.