9 containers of toxic wastes shifted from Ctg Port for disposal

Nine containers filled with hazardous chemicals which remained abandoned for two decades have now been shifted from The Chattogram Port for destruction.

CHATTOGRAM, Oct 03, — Nine containers filled with dangerous, expired chemicals that remained abandoned at Chattogram Port for nearly two decades were dispatched to Narayanganj on Saturday for destruction, officials said.

The hazardous materials were moved under special arrangements from Yard 8B, exiting through Gate No. 4 under the joint supervision of Chattogram Customs and the Chattogram Port Authority.

The chemicals will be destroyed at the Wata Chemicals Limited facility in Rupganj, Narayanganj.

The shipment includes one container of sulfuric acid, one container of nitric acid, five containers of methanol, and two containers of thinner.

Chattogram Customs Assistant Commissioner Russel Ahmed confirmed that the dangerous chemicals are being transported to Narayanganj specifically for disposal.

According to port and customs sources, the chemicals were imported 15 to 20 years ago as raw materials for various industrial factories. However, importers failed to clear the consignments on time due to lawsuits, legal entanglements, and administrative complications. Remaining at the port for years, the expired chemicals posed severe security and fire hazards.

Syed Mohammad Hamim, Secretary (Additional Charge) of the Chattogram Port Authority, said the containers were removed to eliminate extreme fire and security risks at the port. He added that while nine containers were dispatched in the first phase, the remaining chemical containers stored at the port will be removed gradually in phases. - UNB