Chattogram Port’s Patenga Container Terminal (PCT) commenced operations on Monday, marking a significant advancement for the port and Bangladesh’s maritime sector.

The Singapore-flagged container vessel ‘MAERSK DAVAO’ anchored at the terminal, initiating regular handling activities. Authorities expect the terminal to handle around 500,000 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) annually.

This development positions PCT as the first terminal in Chattogram Port’s history to be operated by a foreign company, signifying a new phase of foreign investment and operational practices.

Six months ago, the Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) signed an agreement with the Jeddah-based Red Sea Gateway Terminal (RSGT) of Saudi Arabia. Red Sea Gateway Bangladesh Limited has officially started operations following customs procedures and equipment installations.

Omar Faruk, Secretary of CPA, confirmed RSGT’s readiness to manage container handling at the new terminal. The CPA believes the terminal will enhance the port’s capacity and reduce the average vessel stay time.

The PCT, constructed at a cost of Tk 1.50 billion, funded by the port, features modern facilities, including gantry cranes that boost loading and unloading efficiency.

Rear Admiral Md Sohail, Chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority, noted it would take about 18 months for the terminal to be fully operational.

Built on 32 acres of land near Chattogram Drydock Limited to Boat Club, the foundation stone for the PCT was laid on September 8, 2017. The 34 Engineer Construction Brigade of the Army supervised the project, which began construction in 2018 and involved a total cost of Tk 12.30 billion.

With the new terminal, vessels will no longer need to wait at the outer anchorage for extended periods. The Patenga Container Terminal can accommodate four vessels simultaneously across its jetties, which is expected to alleviate congestion and streamline operations at Chattogram Port.