Chattogram Bureau :
Chattogram Port is set to fully implement digital gate fee payment system for cargo vehicles aiming to reduce traffic congestion and expedite port operations.Initially introduced in July 2021, the digital payment process faced operational delays, but the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) now expects 100% efficiency by the end of this month.
Currently, each vehicle entering the port pays an entry fee of Tk57.50, and the manual process takes 15 to 20 minutes, causing bottlenecks at the port entrance. Under the new digital system, drivers will be able to pre-pay the fee via mobile banking from any location, allowing entry within 1-2 minutes upon arrival.The new system is expected to enhance transparency and create a fairer entry process for around 8,000 cargo vehicles that use the port daily.
Terminal Operating System (TOS), which is used by the CPA to manage port activities, will also manage the digital payment system. CPA officials confirmed that the gate fee remains unchanged, with vehicles permitted direct access to the port yard after showing proof of payment.Lt Col Md Jahirul Islam, CPA director of security, explained that the digital system is already in partial use, with user feedback being incorporated as the port finalises full deployment.