B Mirror Report:  The Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) has formed three special taskforces to ensure smooth unloading of goods and uninterrupted port operations during the extended Eid-ul-Azha holidays.

The initiative comes amid concerns over possible disruptions to the country’s import-export activities during the seven-day public holiday beginning May 25, as many of the 26 related organizations including customs, shipping agencies, banks, ports, and C&F agents  usually operate with limited manpower during the festive period.

To support the port’s special arrangements, Chattogram Custom House has also formed 10 specialized teams to maintain regular customs clearance and examination activities.

According to port sources, Chattogram Port currently handles around 8,700 TEUs of containers daily, while nearly 4,500 TEUs are delivered or unloaded each day. However, although container movement generally continues during Eid holidays, the delivery of goods often slows significantly.

Industry insiders say the ready-made garment sector is especially vulnerable to such disruptions, as delays in receiving imported raw materials can affect garment production and export schedules.

Ahead of Eid, operations at the country’s 21 private inland container depots (ICDs) have increased sharply. Daily export container handling at ICDs has risen from around 7,500 to 11,000 containers, while import container processing has increased from 2,500 to 3,500 containers.

The Bangladesh Inland Container Depots Association (BICDA) said the surge reflects increased shipment pressure before the long Eid break.

BICDA Secretary General Ruhul Amin Sikder Biplob said importers and exporters are rushing to complete post-Eid business activities in advance, resulting in heavy operational pressure at ports and depots.

The CPA said the three taskforces will focus on bulk cargo unloading at the outer anchorage, container movement and yard management at jetties, and overall port security during the holidays.

BGMEA Director Rakibul Alam Chowdhury urged port and customs authorities to ensure uninterrupted export-import operations during Eid.

“If goods are not delivered on time, garment production could face major disruptions, which would negatively affect the national economy,” he said.

CPA Member Commodore Amin Ahmed Abdullah said two taskforces will directly supervise cargo unloading and yard management, while another team will oversee security across the port area.

Meanwhile, Assistant Commissioner of Chattogram Custom House Sharif Md. Al Amin confirmed that sufficient customs officials and staff will remain on duty to maintain normal operations throughout the Eid holidays.