Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman on Sunday alleged that a section of employees has 'hijacked' the port, keeping the public hostage.
While speaking at a press briefing, he said that contract to be signed only after completion of legal process.
Claiming that the operations at the country's main port remain normal despite an ongoing strike by workers and employees, he warned that any attempt to obstruct operations would be dealt with through legal means.
''The contract has not been finalised. Efforts are being made to frustrate the process. However, in the interest of the country, the agreement will be implemented only after the legal and procedural steps are completed.''
SM Moniruzzaman said,''We are servants of the state and our loyalty must be to the state. We must respect the law under which the port operates and the institution itself. If anyone chooses a different allegiance, that goes completely against the code of conduct for officials and employees.''
The chairman also alleged that the action was aimed at creating public discontent ahead of the holy Ramadan.
The port sources said that there are currently 12 ships at the main jetty, while additional 80 ships are at the outer anchorage.
PT/ra