Business Report:
Chattogram Port has lifted its fourfold penal rent on dangerous and chemical-laden containers for the first time in more than four years, following a significant reduction in the volume of such cargo stored inside the terminal.
Port officials said the situation has improved enough to return to regular operational standards, prompting the transport division to issue a suspension notice on Thursday.The punitive charge had been enforced since 31 March 2021 to discourage the prolonged storage of hazardous goods.
They credited the improvement to a series of disposal drives by Chattogram Customs. Just last week, 25 long-abandoned dangerous containers were neutralised and destroyed during a two-day operation.
The cargo included uncoated calcium carbonate, orange emulsion, whey powder, and skimmed milk powder—materials that had deteriorated over the years and posed serious safety risks.
This follows earlier actions, including the destruction of four highly flammable containers left unattended for 14 years.
Meanwhile, the National Board of Revenue has completed an inventory of some 6,069 containers to accelerate auctions and free up yard space. Many have already been sold, while others are awaiting disposal.
According to officials, these combined efforts have eased yard congestion and reduced the risk of accidents, creating conditions suitable for temporarily withdrawing the penal rent.
