Allegations of financial and procedural irregularities have emerged in the automation project at Chattogram Port, with documents suggesting that crores of taka were billed despite incomplete implementation.
Documents obtained by Bangladesh Pratidin reveal multiple inconsistencies. A contract worth Tk 187,948,700 was signed on March 19, 2019, with Computer Network Systems Limited (CNS) to upgrade the port to international standards. The five-year agreement expired on March 18, 2024.
The company is owned by the younger brother of former law minister Anisul Huq, and critics allege it secured a dominant position through political influence, though the claim remains disputed.
Despite provisions for a range of technology-driven services, several components were reportedly not fully implemented. Some system modules were shut down at different stages, disrupting port operations and prompting authorities to form a special review committee.
Financial records show that Tk 112,769,220 was claimed for maintenance over three years, even though only 41 staff were deployed against a contractual requirement of 61. Following a review, a committee recommended payment of Tk 24,745,296 for a period of nine months and 12 days based on the actual workforce, along with a revised monthly maintenance bill of Tk 2,632,478.
Officials also found that automation services were suspended for nearly two months between May 28 and July 27, 2025. A planned overseas visit under the project did not take place, yet related expenses were initially included before being removed in accordance with regulations.
A further bill amounting to Tk 74,949,536 is reportedly under process, raising additional concerns given the unresolved allegations. The documents also point to inconsistencies in project timelines, including extensions without completion, shifting deadlines, and activities carried out without clearly defined timeframes.
Port insiders say disruptions to automation systems have affected routine operations and slowed import-export activities.
The findings indicate potential irregularities, including billing for incomplete work, understaffing, and claims for unexecuted tasks—raising broader concerns about financial oversight and transparency in a critical national infrastructure project.
Chattogram Port Authority Secretary Syed Refayet Hamim said he was aware of the issue but would need to consult the relevant department before commenting further.
In response, CNS said all work was completed in phases in line with the contract and under proper supervision. The company stated that staffing levels were adjusted based on operational requirements, and that temporary service disruptions were due to technical and space constraints, which were later resolved. It also maintained that maintenance bills were approved by relevant committees and that no unauthorized payments were made.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
