Ctg Port suspends fourfold penal rent on dangerous cargo after decline in risky containers
Officials say the number of dangerous goods has decreased enough to restore normal operations, prompting the suspension of the penal rent that had been in place since March 2021
Chattogram Port has suspended the fourfold penal rent on dangerous and chemical-laden containers for the first time in more than four years, following a sharp decline in the volume of such cargo inside the terminal.
Officials said the number of dangerous goods has since decreased enough to restore normal operations, prompting the suspension through a new notification from the transport division on Thursday (20 November).
The penal rent had been in place since a directive issued on 31 March 2021.
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Port officials attributed the improvement to recent disposal drives led by Chattogram Customs.
Last week, 25 long-abandoned, dangerous containers were neutralised and destroyed during a two-day operation.
The cargo included uncoated calcium carbonate, orange emulsion, whey powder, and skimmed milk powder, all of which had deteriorated over the years and posed safety risks.
This followed similar steps taken last year, when four highly flammable containers left idle for 14 years were destroyed.
The National Board of Revenue has also completed an inventory of around 6,069 containers to speed up auctions and free yard space, with many already sold and others awaiting disposal.
Officials said the combined efforts have eased pressure inside the port and lowered the risk of accidents, allowing the penal rent to be suspended temporarily.
Port users, particularly importers handling sensitive cargo, have described the decision as a welcome relief.
However, the port authority reminded importers that prompt delivery of dangerous and chemical cargo remains essential.
Any delay could cause congestion to return and trigger stricter measures.
Customs agents and importers have welcomed the move, saying it will help reduce import costs.
Akber Chowdhury, a veteran customs agent, told The Business Standard that dangerous cargo often takes longer to clear because of multiple checks and lab tests.
As a result, the fourfold penal rent sometimes exceeded the value of the goods, discouraging importers from taking delivery.
He said the suspension will encourage traders to release their cargo without fear of excessive storage costs.
