Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) published a new directive in order to improve navigational safety in the port. This directive came after the number of navigational incidents in recent years increased.
Responding to the increasing number of navigational incidents, accidents and near-misses in recent years, especially in the Chittagong outer anchorage, due to rising maritime traffic in the area, the local authority established new regulations and recommendations which are in effect from October 1, 2018.
The regulations are the following:
- The agent of any vessel with a draft of over 9.5 meters must inform the CPA outer anchorage cell at least three (3) days before proceeding to Chittagong outer anchorage. Permission to proceed will depend on the availability of suitable sea room and the bathymetry (depth and extent of water) at the anchorage;
- Pilotage is highly recommended for vessels having a draft of more than 9.5 meters, and is also recommended for all other vessels maneuvering within the Chittagong outer anchorage area;
- Chittagong Port Radio will guide the vessels with a draft exceeding 9.5 meters to an anchorage suitable for the vessel in question;
- The CPA outer anchorage cell will monitor and guide vessel movements. It will also supervise the voluntary pilotage service at the Chittagong outer anchorage area.