Dec 25, (V7N) - A legal notice has been served urging the cancellation of alleged "secret agreements" between the Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) and foreign companies for the operation of container depots. The agreements, reportedly signed during the tenure of the previous Sheikh Hasina-led government without a public tender, have drawn criticism for bypassing local businesses and potentially jeopardizing national interests.

Md. Rafiqul Islam, owner of Banglamark Corporation, initiated the legal action through Supreme Court lawyer Barrister Md. Anowar Hossain. The notice, directed at the Shipping Ministry, CPA, and Public Private Partnership Authority, highlights several concerns, including the potential outflow of significant foreign currency and the risk of job loss for local manpower.

The notice further emphasizes national security concerns, given the sensitive installations surrounding Chattogram Port. Allowing foreign companies to manage the facilities, built with CPA's own funds, could pose security vulnerabilities, it argues.

Additionally, the legal notice contends that the agreements undermine capable and experienced local operators. It suggests that a fair and transparent process should involve inviting foreign investors to develop new container depots and floating competitive tenders open to both domestic and international players.

This challenge underscores broader issues about transparency and fairness in public-private partnerships, raising questions about how such critical infrastructure is managed and the implications for local businesses and national security.

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