Strict Security Measures at Chattogram Port Ban on Unauthorized Vessels and Fishing

The Chattogram Port Authority has issued strict directives to ensure the safe movement of vessels and maritime security in the Chattogram port area. Unauthorized vessels operating within the port limits, outer anchorage and merchant ship passage, unauthorized berthing alongside ships, and the illegal setting of fishing nets have been strictly prohibited. At the same time, the appointment of authorized watchmen on vessels stationed at the outer anchorage has been made mandatory.

The directives were issued in a public notice by the Chattogram Port Authority on Tuesday. The notice said that, as the country’s principal seaport, Chattogram Port plays a vital role in maintaining the continuity of the national economy, industrial production, energy supplies, food security and foreign trade. However, the recent movement of unauthorized vessels and the illegal placement of fishing nets within the port limits, outer anchorage and merchant ship passage are disrupting the safe movement of commercial vessels and increasing the risk of accidents.In this situation, the port authority has instructed ships to strictly comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and existing port security directives. 

Every vessel stationed at the outer anchorage must maintain a continuous anchor watch, monitor VHF Channels 16 and 12, conduct regular deck patrols and ensure adequate security lighting.No freshwater barge, service boat or any other vessel will be permitted to come alongside a ship without prior authorization from Port Control. Any suspicious vessel or security-related incident must be reported immediately to Port Control and the Bangladesh Coast Guard.The port authority further said that ship masters and shipping agents must take the necessary measures to appoint trained and authorized watchmen to strengthen security on vessels stationed at the outer anchorage.

For the appointment of watchmen, obtaining recommendations and approval from the Chattogram Port Authority’s Watchman Booking Cell has been made mandatory.The notice explicitly stated that illegal fishing, the placement of fishing nets, or creating obstructions to navigation through fishing boats within the Chattogram port limits, approaches, merchant ship passage and outer anchorage are strictly prohibited. 

Such activities pose a serious risk to the movement of commercial vessels and could lead to accidents.The port authority said continuous surveillance would be maintained through the Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS) to strengthen navigational safety. In addition, patrols, surveillance and coordinated operations by the Bangladesh Navy, Bangladesh Coast Guard, police, Department of Shipping, Mercantile Marine Office and other relevant agencies would be further intensified. The public notice warned that anyone violating the directives would face necessary legal and administrative action under the Chattogram Port Authority Act, 2022, and relevant regulations.