Photo: Collected

CHATTOGRAM, Feb 5, 2026 (BSS) - The strike at Chattogram Port, triggered by protests over the cancellation of the lease process for the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to UAE-based company DP World and the removal of the port chairman, has been postponed for two days after a meeting with Shipping Adviser Brig Gen (Retd) Sakhawat Hossain.

Following the discussion today, the 'Chattogram Port Protection Movement Council' announced that the strike would be suspended on Friday and Saturday, while warning that they would resume their hard-line program if their demands were not met within the given timeframe.

The Shipping Adviser, speaking after the meeting at the Chattogram Port Building, stressed that no one has the authority to halt port operations, especially ahead of Ramadan. 

He highlighted the critical need to maintain port functionality for essential supplies, including aviation fuel, and emphasized the importance of foreign investment and agreements to improve the port's capacity and align with international standards. 

The adviser also warned that any disruption or sabotage would be dealt with firmly.

The protesters, taking the country's economic situation into account, agreed to suspend their movement temporarily. 

Humayun Kabir, coordinator of the Port Protection Council, said that the strike will resume if their demands-including the removal of the port chairman and cancellation of the NCT lease-are not addressed within two days.

The strike, which began last Wednesday, had paralyzed operations at Chattogram Port, affecting about 91% of the nation's exports. Ships remained stranded at the outer anchorage, goods were not unloaded, and container transport from 19 off-docks was halted. 

Law enforcement authorities remain on alert as efforts continue to gradually restore normal port activities.