Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) has issued its own alert-4 after the met office asked the maritime ports of Cox's Bazar and Chittagong to keep hoisted great danger signal 8 as very severe cyclonic storm Mocha approaches.
Meanwhile, Chittagong port, which controls about 92% of the country's import-export trade, has also stopped the release of goods, side by side suspending its operational activities.
Besides, vessels berthed at the jetty have been asked to move to outer anchorage as soon as possible.
Lighter vessels have also been asked to take shelter towards Shah Amanat Bridge area of Karnaphuli River.
At the same time, ships have been started moving from jetty.
Chittagong Port Authority Secretary Mohammad Omar Faruk confirmed the information.
All operational activities of the port will remain suspended until the weather situation becomes normal, he said.
"Bulk ships have been driven out to the outer anchorage. The ships will remain at outer anchorage with the running engine," he added.
Chittagong Meteorological Department has advised to hoist great danger signal 8 at the maritime ports of Chittagong, Cox's Bazar, and Payra.
Besides, Mongla seaport has been asked to show local warning signal 4.
Coastal districts of Cox's Bazar, Chittagong, Feni, Noakhali, Lakshmipur, Chandpur, Barisal, Bhola, Patuakhali, Jhalakathi, Pirojpur, Barguna, and their nearby islands and chars will also be under great danger signal 8.
All fishing boats and trawlers over the north Bay of Bengal have been advised to take shelter immediately, Chittagong Meteorological Department sources said.
