Chattogram, Feb 8 (V7N) — Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) Chairman SM Moniruzzaman on Saturday expressed optimism that the ongoing unrest at the port over a proposed terminal management plan would ease soon, saying a majority of workers have agreed to resume duties despite a renewed shutdown call.

Speaking at a press conference at Bandar Bhaban, Moniruzzaman said he held nearly two hours of discussions with workers’ and employees’ representatives earlier in the day.

“They have agreed to return to their respective duties,” he said, adding that port operations are expected to return to normal gradually from today.

The briefing came as protesting workers announced a fresh indefinite shutdown after a two-day pause, following an earlier six-day work stoppage under the banner of the Chattogram Bandar Rakkha Sangram Parishad (Chattogram Port Protection Movement Council).

The protests are linked to concerns over a proposal to involve a foreign company in operating the New Mooring Container Terminal. Addressing the issue, the CPA chairman said there was no disruption at present.

“Vehicles are moving normally, and officials and employees have confirmed their intention to continue working,” he said, while urging that no one obstruct regular port operations.

Moniruzzaman noted that some employees were continuing protests, which he attributed to external influences, and urged all staff to adhere to service rules and their responsibilities to the state and the constitution.

He maintained that port activities were continuing smoothly and said unnecessary disruptions could negatively affect the public, particularly ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.

Responding to speculation over the timing of the proposed agreement, the CPA chairman said the government was not rushing the process.

“I do not see any undue haste,” he said, adding that had there been urgency, the process could have been completed much earlier.

He dismissed claims that the agreement was being finalised ahead of elections, saying the deal has not yet been concluded and that premature and misleading information was circulating.

Moniruzzaman said protest actions began following a High Court verdict and that the issue is now moving through due legal processes, with further steps to be taken after proceedings in the Supreme Court.

He reiterated that any decision taken by the state would prioritise national interest and public welfare, while noting that specific details cannot be confirmed until a final agreement is signed.

He also said misinformation surrounding the issue has complicated efforts to move the process forward.

END/CTH/RH