Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) on May 16 introduced a new single-point system to replace the old fashioned stevedoring system for cargo handling at Chittagong Port. The new system, also known as berth operator system, came into force with the delivery of containers from MV Banga Barta and MV Hasna at the port. The decision to introduce the single-point operating system was taken at a high-level meeting at Chittagong Port on May 7.

Under the system, twelve berth operators, instead of workers and employees at the port, handle cargo operations at all the 13 jetties of the port. The new system, launched on an experimental basis, will continue until berth operators are engaged through open tenders after necessary amendments to the rules. The 12 stevedoring agencies that have been appointed berth operators are Ruhul Amin & Brothers (Jetty No 2), AW Khan (No 3), United Trading (No 4), Cosmos Enterprise (No 5), FQ Khan (No 6), Four Jewel Stevedoring (No 7), Pancharag Udayan Sangstha (No 8), Fazli Sons (No 9), Bashir Ahmad (No 10), A&J Traders (No 11), Everest Enterprise (No 12) and MH Chowdhury (No 13).

Besides, 36 more stevedoring agencies, which had been operating at the port, have also been absorbed and will work with the twelve berth operators. Some 231 workers and staffs will remain under the control of each berth operator. The port users believe the new system will protect importers from harassment and financial losses they suffered in the stevedoring system.