Illegal bulkheads reported operational at Chittagong

Bulkheads are ships usually used to carry bulk cargo such as construction material. These vessels are said to be the riskiest as they are vulnerable to sinking. They are currently being used to move bulk cargo such as sand, stones, coal through the Karnafuli river connecting to Chittagong Port. Currently about 300 such ships are being used for lighterage at the Chittagong Port, putting the port channel at high risk. In addition to moving cargo from outer vessels to mother vessels, bulkheads are also used for moving bulk cargo across the country to Rajbari, Mirsarai, Kutubdia, Cox’s Bazar. Chittagong Port Authority has said that they are following a zero tolerance policy restricting movement of bulkheads for the safety of the port.