Chattogram, Nov 27 (V7N) – Labor unions under the Workers-Employee Unity Council (WEUC) blocked roads leading to Chattogram port on Wednesday morning to protest the lease of port terminals to foreign operators. The demonstrations took place at three key locations, including the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT), Laldia Char, and Pangaon Terminal, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

Hundreds of workers staged sit-ins on roads near Ishak Depot Toll Plaza, Boro Pol, and Saltgola crossings, halting traffic temporarily. Police intervened at some points to clear the roads, and the protesters eventually dispersed by mid-afternoon. The port protection council also held rallies and assemblies opposing the lease to DP World at the New Mooring Terminal.

Similar protests were held in Brahmanbaria, organized by various leftist groups, including CPB, JASAD, and BASAD (Marxist), at the Press Club in the afternoon.

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) emphasized that while foreign investment in port development can provide positive signals for the country, lack of transparency and accountability could create long-term risks. TIB noted that the lease process for Laldia and Pangaon terminals moved unusually fast, completing ten key steps—including valuation, negotiations, board approvals, and contract signing—within just two weeks. TIB’s Executive Director Dr. Iftikharuzzaman called for a clear government explanation regarding the rapid approval process.

The WEUC has warned that if their nine-point demands are not met, nationwide protests and torch rallies are planned for December 5, with Chattogram activities centered around the old railway station area.

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