Workers and employees at Chattogram Port began a work stoppage on Saturday, defying official warnings from the port authority. Although cargo unloading at the jetty continued, delivery and other internal operations came to a standstill. The strike was called by the Chattogram Port unit of the Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal to protest the government’s decision to lease the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to foreign company DP World. The program, announced earlier in the week, was supported by the Sramik Karmachari Oikya Parishad (SKOP).

The port authority had issued a notice on Friday warning of strict administrative and legal action against those involved in anti-institutional activities, stating that the process of engaging the foreign company was based on a court ruling. Despite this, workers continued their planned program. According to labor leader Humayun Kabir, workers reported to duty but refrained from work as a peaceful protest, keeping vessel unloading ongoing to avoid congestion.

Port officials said discussions were ongoing and that an official statement would be released later. The strike is scheduled to end at 4 p.m., with workers warning of tougher actions if the government does not reconsider the lease decision.