Chattogram Port Achieves 'Zero Waiting Time' for Vessels

Chattogram Port has successfully restored "zero waiting time" for arriving vessels, significantly boosting the efficiency of Bangladesh’s primary maritime gateway. Ships at the outer anchorage no longer face delays, streamlining the nation’s import-export activities and reducing overall turnaround times.

Port authorities confirmed that this milestone was consistently maintained throughout the last quarter of 2024. Despite a brief slowdown between late January and early February due to operational disruptions, full-scale activities have resumed, bringing the waiting period back to zero.

Syed Refayet Hamim, Secretary of the Chattogram Port Authority (CPA), stated that this achievement eliminates long stays at the outer anchorage. "This efficiency lowers business costs, secures the supply chain, and enhances Bangladesh's international reputation," he said. He attributed the success to integrated planning and effective cooperation among stakeholders.

To ensure a steady supply of essential goods during Ramadan and the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, the port remained operational 24/7. While waiting times briefly spiked to 3–5 days before the holidays, rigorous monitoring and roster-based staffing allowed the port to return to zero-day status rapidly.

The reduction in logistics costs is expected to have a direct impact on the domestic market. By ensuring faster delivery for importers and timely shipments for exporters, the port’s efficiency helps stabilize the prices of daily necessities for general consumers. Port officials remain optimistic that with continued coordination, "zero waiting time" will become a permanent feature of Chittagong Port’s operations.