An initiative to introduce automation at Chittagong Port has been announced by Maritime and Textile Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hossain.
 
He stated that automating processes would significantly reduce container handling times. Previously, unloading goods from a ship took about 10 to 15 days, but improvements have been made, although he emphasized that they are not yet satisfied. The automation process is ongoing, which he believes will further decrease the time for loading and unloading containers.
 
Advisor made these remarks while speaking to reporters at the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) after inspecting Chittagong Port on Tuesday afternoon.
 
Following a three-day tour, he discussed the port, maritime trade, and the blue economy, noting that many irregularities have occurred at Chittagong Port. "It would take all day to list them. Many licenses have been issued. Some are related to unqualified individuals who are not actively working. They may have sold their licenses to someone else. These issues have come to our attention, and we are taking action," he said.
 
Regarding the activities at Chittagong Port, he mentioned that some containers have been sitting there for 20 years, and some vehicles have been idle for 12 to 14 years.
 
He highlighted the need for the National Board of Revenue (NBR) to auction these items and said, "If the port area is filled like this, how can operations expand? I will discuss this with the chairman of the NBR upon my return."
 
Dr. Sakhawat Hossain further stated that they will implement the best measures for the port. He announced that tenders will no longer be conducted through the DPM (Direct Procurement Method) system; instead, open tenders will be called, which will be reviewed afterward.
 
The adviser inspected the Patenga Container Terminal, Laldia Char, the Bay terminal project area, and other parts of Chittagong Port, engaging with reporters at the NCT yard. Chittagong Port Authority Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs Md. Muhidul Islam, Managing Director of Bangladesh Shipping Corporation Commodore Mahmoodul Malek, and other port officials were present during the visit.