Fuel shortage threatens cargo handling at Ctg Port

CHATTOGRAM, Apr 1: Cargo handling operations at the outer anchorage of Chattogram Port are facing serious disruption due to an acute fuel shortage affecting lighter vessels, operators have warned.

The Bangladesh Water Transport Coordination Cell (BWTCC), an organisation representing lighter vessel operators, has threatened to suspend cargo operations if the situation is not addressed immediately.

In a letter sent to the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources on Monday, the BWTCC urged the government to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply to keep port operations running smoothly. The letter was signed by its convener, Alhaj Shafique Ahmed, and also copied to Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury.

The organisation said fuel suppliers, including Padma, Meghna and Jamuna oil companies, have failed to meet the demand of marine fuel dealers, resulting in a severe shortage for lighter vessels operating on inland waterways.

Due to the shortage, many lighter vessels are unable to load cargo from mother vessels anchored at the outer anchorage or transport goods to the port for unloading. As a result, the number of operational vessels is declining steadily, raising concerns over a potential disruption in the entire cargo handling chain.

The BWTCC warned that if the situation persists, unloading of cargo from mother vessels could come to a complete halt in the near future. Such a scenario would increase vessel turnaround time and may discourage mother vessels from calling at Chattogram Port.

It also cautioned that delays could lead to higher demurrage costs, causing a significant outflow of foreign currency. The impact would eventually be felt across the economy, including possible increases in the prices of essential commodities.

The BWTCC called on the government to instruct state-run fuel suppliers to ensure adequate fuel supply to marine dealers, enabling uninterrupted operations of lighter vessels. 

It also requested a meeting with the relevant authorities to discuss the situation and explore possible solutions.