Approach to Bangladesh
This comprehensive guide provides essential navigational and regulatory information for foreign vessels approaching Bangladesh ports, with a focus on Chattogram Harbour. It utilises the latest British Admiralty (BA) Nautical Charts and maritime regulations to ensure safe and compliant vessel operations within Bangladesh waters.
Admiralty BA Chart References
- BA Chart 102 – Bangladesh, Chattogram Harbour: Detailed chart featuring harbour layout, navigational aids, depths, and berth information for the principal port of Chattogram.
- BA Chart 1016 – Bangladesh, Approaches to Chattogram: Covers coastal approaches, sea lanes, pilotage zones, anchorages, and vessel traffic schemes relevant to Chattogram.
- Additional Charts: Charts for Mongla, Payra, and Kutubdia seaports assist in route planning and approach navigation.
Navigational Database Features
- Traffic Separation Schemes: Designed to manage vessel traffic, reducing collision risk in busy coastal approaches.
- Depths and Dredged Channels: Maintained navigational channels generally accommodate vessels with drafts up to approximately 11 metres, variable by port.
- Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) and Pilotage: Active VTS monitors vessel movement in the region; compulsory pilotage ensures safe harbour entry and berthing.
- Navigational Aids: Principal lights, buoys, and shore landmarks charted for both visual and electronic navigation.
- Anchorage Areas: Designated safe zones for anchoring before port entry or alongside berths.
Maritime Regulatory Guidelines for Foreign Vessels
- Innocent Passage: Foreign vessels may transit Bangladesh territorial waters under international law, with compliance to national regulations.
- Notification Requirements: Prior notification to authorities is mandatory for warships, submarines, and for entry permissions.
- Operational Restrictions: Foreign vessels require licences for coasting trade and fishing activities; unauthorised activities are prohibited.
- Safety and Environmental Compliance: Strict adherence to safety protocols, pollution prevention, and environmental protection regulations is mandatory.
- Emergency Entry Protocols: Emergency entries for refuge or assistance are permitted with immediate authority notification.
Port Facilities and Access
- Chattogram Port: Main deep-sea port featuring modern cargo handling, navigational aids, and customs facilities.
- Mongla, Payra and Kutubdia Ports: Secondary ports with developing infrastructure and navigational improvements.
- Channel Depths: Navigation is typically synchronised with tidal conditions to accommodate vessel drafts.
Port Authority Regulations
All vessels entering Bangladesh ports must comply with the regulations set forth by the Port Authority of Bangladesh, including mandatory pilotage, pre-arrival notifications, adherence to vessel traffic service (VTS) instructions, and environmental protection guidelines. Vessels must also provide accurate documentation for customs and quarantine clearance. Non-compliance may result in delays or refusal of port entry.
Local Authority Regulations
Local maritime authorities enforce regulations regarding security, pollution control, and navigational safety within Bangladesh territorial waters. All foreign vessels must observe speed limits in designated zones, report movements to port and coast guard authorities, and ensure the presence of valid licenses for any local operations. Cooperation with emergency response and search & rescue services is mandatory in case of incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Foreign vessels must provide prior notification to the relevant port authority, including vessel details, estimated time of arrival, and purpose of visit. Warships and submarines are subject to special notification processes as per national regulations.
No, foreign vessels require specific licenses to engage in fishing or coasting trade within Bangladesh’s territorial waters. Unauthorized operations may lead to penalties or detention by local authorities.
Mariners should use the latest British Admiralty (BA) Nautical Charts such as BA Chart 102 (Chattogram Harbour) and BA Chart 1016 (Approaches to Chattogram), along with any updated local charts issued by Bangladesh maritime authorities.
Ships can contact the Chittagong Port Authority at the Bandar Bhaban office, phone number +880 31-2510878 or email dt@cpa.gov.bd. The port authority provides operational, pilotage, and safety information for vessels.
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