The much awaited Patenga Container Terminal (PCT) is going to be commissioned in April. Meanwhile, Red Sea Gateway Terminal (RSGT), the contracted Saudi firm for PCT operations, is recruiting and training 140 Bangladeshis for operational work. Besides, 9 reach stackers and 4 empty handlers brought to this terminal for container handling have arrived in Chittagong. PCT operational work will begin with a top local shipping line.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of RSGT Bangladesh Limited, Erwin Haze, gave this information regarding the preparations for the launch of Patenga Container Terminal.
He said that necessary IT infrastructure including Terminal Operating System, Access Control System and Attendance System is currently underway to facilitate smooth operation of PCT. Besides, yard painting of PCT is in progress and other measures are being taken to further improve the infrastructure of the terminal.
He further said, undoubtedly there are some challenges in launching such a huge project, especially the first Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiative in a port in Bangladesh. However, with the unwavering support of our experienced teams from RSGT Jeddah, our local stakeholders including Chittagong Port Authority, National Board of Revenue and Customs, the challenges are easily resolved
However, earlier in February, the port chairman Rear Admiral M Sohail announced the launch of PCT in April at the inauguration ceremony of the container scanner purchased by Chittagong port
Secretary of Port Authority. Omar Farooq said RSGT is working for full-scale operations in April. NBR has written to us for some licenses and permissions including customs. We are getting full cooperation from the Port Authority. Let’s hope they can go to PCT operation in April.