Chittagong, Mar 20 (V7N) – The Chittagong Port Authority has issued a strict directive requiring lighter ships to exit port limits within 72 hours after loading imported goods from large vessels at the outer anchorage.

The directive was enforced during a joint raid on Wednesday (March 19) against the illegal storage of imported goods in floating warehouses on rivers and seas without marketing them after unloading. Chittagong Port Secretary Omar Faruk confirmed the operation, which was conducted by the Coast Guard, Department of Shipping, and Chittagong Port Authority.

According to Omar Faruk, a prior order was issued on February 26 mandating lighter ships to load goods and leave within 72 hours to stabilize market prices and ensure the efficient distribution of goods. Wednesday’s operation was conducted to assess compliance with this directive.

During the raid, port magistrates, navy personnel, and coast guard officials inspected:

  • Arrival times of ships at the port limits
  • Loading times of imported goods
  • Departure times after loading

Port sources revealed that some traders are allegedly misusing lighter ships as "floating warehouses"—deliberately hoarding goods instead of sending them to markets, thereby artificially inflating prices. However, storing goods on ships for more than 72 hours after unloading is strictly prohibited.

To curb such practices, the third phase of operations targeting illegal storage of goods on ships was launched on Wednesday morning. Authorities confirmed that the crackdown will continue to ensure market stability and prevent artificial shortages.

END/MSS/AJ