Ctg port workers begin hunger strike against DP World deal

Activists of Chattogram Bandar Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal and Bandar Rokkha Sangram Parishad began a daylong hunger strike today, demanding cancellation of the 15-year deal with UAE-based DP World to operate the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT).

More than 100 leaders and activists began the strike in front of the port’s One Stop Service Building around 11:30am. Activists from different political and workers’ organisations under the Chattogram Bandar Rokkha Committee also joined the programme.

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On Thursday, the Chittagong Port Authority signed a 15-year concession agreement with DP World for the operation and maintenance of the terminal. The agreement was signed at the Invest Bangladesh auditorium in Dhaka.

Port workers and their supporters have long opposed the proposed deal, holding rallies, human chains, torch processions and other programmes demanding its cancellation.

Despite the protests, the government and the port authority proceeded with the agreement. Workers staged demonstrations at the port on the day it was signed and gave the authorities until yesterday to meet their demands.

Humayun Kabir, a coordinator of the Bandar Rokkha Sangram Parishad, said no invitation for talks had come from the government by yesterday afternoon.