Two platforms of the Sramik-Karmachari Oikya Parishad (SKOP) are enforcing a three-hour blockade at Chittagong Port to protest the government’s move to lease the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to a foreign operator.
The blockade began at 10am on Wednesday and will continue until 1pm.
It is being carried out at three points – Miler Matha (Seamen’s Hostel), the toll road plaza gate, and the Big Pool area.
A meeting between SKOP leaders and port authorities on Tuesday failed to reach an agreement.
In a statement, Trade Union Centre Joint Secretary Iftikhar Kamal said the previously announced blockade would go ahead as planned.
SKOP leaders objected to comments by BIDA CEO Ashiq Chowdhury, who said the NCT agreement would be finalized “within seven days” following lease deals for Laldia Char and Pangaon.
They argue the interim government “has no moral or legal authority” to enter into strategic agreements.
The blockade is part of a symbolic protest demanding cancellation of lease arrangements for NCT, Laldia Char, and Pangaon, including the deal involving foreign firm DP World.
A rally is being held alongside the blockade.
Addressing the gathering, Bangladesh Sramik Federation Central President SK Khoda Toton said: “We can paralyze the port if we want, but we are giving time. Withdraw the decision to hand over the terminal to foreigners. Otherwise, we will be forced to announce a larger program.”