Authorities in Chattogram have enforced a sweeping one‑month ban on all public gatherings around the country’s busiest seaport, as tensions rise over protests against foreign involvement in port operations.
The Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) announced the restrictions late Saturday night, allowing only election‑related activities within the designated area. The move follows escalating demonstrations by a faction of port workers opposing the government’s decision to grant management of key import‑export functions to a foreign company.
In its public notice, issued by CMP Commissioner Hasib Aziz, the force urged residents and passersby to avoid carrying any objects that could cause harm including stones, sticks, brick chips, sharp weapons, explosives or firearms. The statement emphasized that the Chattogram seaport, described as the “heart of Bangladesh’s economy,” must be protected from disruptions that could jeopardize both port operations and national security.
Police said the temporary ban aims to ensure public safety and maintain uninterrupted export‑import activities, which were significantly hindered on Saturday when a group of workers reportedly aligned with the BNP’s labour wing staged rallies and processions near the port.
The protesting workers are opposing the government and High Court decision to hand over management of the New Mooring Container Terminal to UAE‑based DP World. They argue that allowing foreign control of such a strategic facility “threatens national security.”
The standoff underscores growing political and economic tensions surrounding foreign investment in Bangladesh’s critical infrastructure.
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