In order to reduce  the risk of collisions and groundings in the Port of Chittagong, please be advised of  the following guidelines:

JF(Bangladesh) Limited, our correspondents in Chittagong, Bangladesh, has provided us with the following information.

Quote

Operational Guidelines for master anchoring at Chittagong Outer Anchorage

1. Anchor at a safe distance from other vessels at anchor
2. If the Under keel clearance is less than 2 meters there is a possibility that you will drag your anchor. This is more prominent during spring  tides and during monsoon. The tide can be as strong as 6 to 7 knots per hour.
3. If you are lightering with other vessels alongside the chances of dragging anchor is even more.
4. As a precaution use more chains, keep your engine stand by all the times and keep the numbers of lighter vessels alongside to minimum.
5. Keep a good anti-piracy lookout
6. When maneuvering for anchoring or picking pilot never attempt to cross other vessels bow at close range. Please remember the current here is very strong.
7. Deep draught vessel lightering at Alpha anchorage shall shift to Bravo or Charlie. When they attain required draughts to make room for safe anchoring of newly arrived deep draft vessels.
8. Ship Master are required to anchor clear of the “ PROHIBITED ANCHORAGE”
9. Ship Master must not anchor their vessels near the river entrance
10. Ship Master must maneuver with great care while embarking or disembarking Pilots
11. Pilot ladder as per regulation must be provided
12. Ship Master must note that  strong tidal condition prevail at outer anchorage and utmost care must be taken while maneuvering anchoring or heaving up anchors.
13. Crossing of bow at close range shall never be attempted.
14. All vessels within Port Limit shall strictly comply with existing Port Rules.
15. Ship Masters approaching Chittagong Road are advised not to attempt to cross the bow of vessels at anchor/underway to avoid drifting on them resulting probable collision in view of the prevailing strong current at outer anchorage. However, if it is inevitable to cross, Ship Master may do so with caution by giving  wider berth to the vessels at anchor/underway considering the minimum velocity of the current being 6 Knots and other marine factors.

Further information regarding positions of ship wrecks and buoys at Chittagong Port Authority

Unquote

Member Alert is published by The Swedish Club as a service to members. While the information is believed correct, the Club cannot assume responsibility for completeness or accuracy.