Clear long-standing audit objections at 3 seaports: JS body

The parliamentary committee on government undertakings today suggested for greater transparency and accountability in the financial management and operations of the country’s three major seaports, with a focus on resolving long-standing audit objections and preventing misuse of public funds.

The committee made the recommendations at its 5th meeting, chaired by Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban.

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The meeting reviewed the financial management, operational activities and audit reports of the Chittagong, Mongla, and Payra port authorities.

The committee emphasised improving operational efficiency, preventing wastage of public money and taking necessary steps to ensure accountability of the authorities concerned.

It also discussed security and management at Chittagong Port following a recent report in a national daily titled “Containers Loaded with Goods Disappearing One after Another, Security at Chattogram Port at Risk”.

The meeting stressed the need to expedite the disposal of auctionable containers and vehicles that have remained at the port for a long time, improve coordination between the Customs authorities and port management, and take effective measures to resolve existing complications.

The committee also discussed strengthening digital management systems and improving transparency in port operations.

During a review of dredging activities, project implementation, and related audit objections at Mongla and Payra ports, the committee emphasised ensuring that projects achieve their intended objectives and public funds are used properly.

It recommended identifying those responsible and taking necessary action in accordance with the rules if irregularities or financial losses are established in project implementation.

The meeting also discussed recovering matured fixed deposits held by Chittagong Port Authority with various banks and clearing long-standing audit objections at the three ports.