The movement of containers from Chattogram port to Dhaka’s inland container depot (ICD) in Kamalapur has slowed dramatically, leading to significant backlogs and increased costs for importers. The shortage of freight trains is causing delays, with many importers waiting weeks for their shipments to arrive.
Current port data indicates that over 1,259 TEUs are stranded at Chattogram, belonging to more than 400 importers. This volume has nearly doubled compared to the same period last month. The backlog is primarily attributed to a shortage of railway engines, according to port officials and traders.
On 31st May, 655 containers destined for Kamalapur were waiting at the yard; this number increased to 918 in June and 1,363 by the end of July. As of 24th August, the number remains above 1,200 containers awaiting transportation.
Bangladesh Railway’s figures reveal a similar trend. In May, 125 container trains operated between Chattogram and Dhaka; this number dropped to 91 in June, 83 in July, and only 68 trains have run so far in August.
Omar Faruk, Secretary of the Chattogram Port Authority, highlighted the situation, stating, “There is a demand for six to seven container trains daily on the Chattogram-Kamalapur route, but the railway is unable to meet even half of that requirement.” He emphasised that additional engine allocations are essential, adding, “Unless more engines are provided, congestion will persist.”
Railway officials acknowledge the issue and are working to address it. Mohammad Subaktagin, General Manager of Bangladesh Railway’s East Zone, explained, “Engine shortages have been an ongoing problem, especially when passenger train engines face breakdowns or are prioritised for rallies. We are planning to import new engines and refurbish existing ones to expand freight capacity.”
Meanwhile, importers remain frustrated by the delays and escalating expenses. Lokman Hossain of Janata Enterprise, a Dhaka-based trading firm, shared his experience, “We imported six containers of steel coal from South Korea in late July, but they still haven’t reached Kamalapur. Previously, goods would arrive within five to seven days of port discharge, but now delays are common.”
He criticised the current situation, saying, “Passenger trains are being prioritised for political rallies and other events, often at the expense of freight services. When passenger engines break down, freight schedules are canceled or delayed, which is unfair to importers.”
Hossain also pointed out that importers are unfairly bearing costs due to inefficiencies. “According to regulations, we have four days to clear containers at the ICD without incurring demurrage charges. Yet, we’re being forced to pay demurrage at Chattogram port even when our containers haven’t yet arrived at the ICD. This adds to our financial burden and frustration.”
The ongoing capacity constraints and logistical issues highlight the urgent need for improved railway services to facilitate smoother trade operations at Chattogram port.
